Group 16
ACTIVE AXIS

Active Axis is a cooperative of designers working alongside Life Leisure to develop a new community outdoor space on the Avondale Site. Life Leisure is a community interested company that focuses on providing accessible leisure and social activities to the local community across several sites. The aim of the venture is to create a multi functional outdoor learning space/ classroom which adapts and responds to the use and abilities of all members of the community: giving pride and ownership of the project to the community across all generations and abilities.

Harry B / Ivan B / Lok Yiu Charlotte H / Maream M / Menghan Q / Nadia Ibrahim Mourad Kadry Ahmed S / Owen B / Qiwei W / Tailuu R / Ziyu L / Zoya K

Maream M
First Introductory Meeting -

Today marked our first time each other as well as the collaborator. We hit the ground running at the first instance to the point that two icebreaker sessions in, we didn’t need them anymore as we were comfortable with one another to share our experiences as well as assess our strengths and weaknesses to harness further down the line.
We also worked on understanding each other’s schedules, establishing communication, points of contact and slowly the group went through the norming stage with quite ease even though we didn’t know each other 3 hours before the session.
As we went through trying to understand the brief and its requirements, we were also brainstorming some ideas for project names that could fulfil the key principles that the Life Leisure stands for. Seeing that the project name needed to be incorporated into the poster, there was a separate group established that would be working to create the design with development sketch ideas provided by all members of the team.
After meeting with the Life Leisure collaborators, our first stance with the principles involving the words Accessible, vibrant, community, greenery and cross generation has made it abundantly clear.
And therefore I introduce to you, Active Axis and its members that will be working on it. Check next blog pages!
Posted 6 Feb 2026 21:25
Maream M
MArch 1 - Maream Merza

Hi, I am Maream Merza currently in my first year of my Masters of Architecture. I grew up between the Netherlands and the Middle East and with that experienced life in architecture on many different scales without realising I was going to choose this path.
I did my undergraduate at UWE Bristol which is very different from the way things run here which makes this course all the more exciting! My 2 years of corporate practice has given me invaluable knowledge on how practices are run and what entails bidding processes in the public sector and also helped figure out where my own architectural interests lie.
Leisure spaces are probably one of my favourite parts of travel when you encounter a place where people are dancing near the River Seine, or walk the High Line, a disused space now full of life and people in New York or even eating ice cream in a plaza in Milan. I’m looking forward to working with the team on what is getting to an exciting start on tackling another one of these unique challenges!
Posted 17 Feb 2026 19:10
Ivan B
BA 1 - Ivan Broussy

Hi, I'm Ivan and I'm in my first year of BA in Architecture. I'm French, but over the course of the past 19 years I've lived in Moscow, Barcelona and Singapore. My eyes were first opened to Architecture when I was 8 years old, living in Barcelona, and my parents showed me the plans of the renovation of our home that they were undertaking. Looking at these plans, and being able to track recognise the changes to the spaces that would occur in my home captivated me. From there I didn't look back, and soon became enthralled with the ability to represent space through drawing, and particularly through the use of perspective. As a result, being able to now take part in designing and renovating of the exterior spaces around Life Leisure Avondale into a vibrant community-led social space through the MSA live program is particularly exciting. I am enthusiastic to put my drawing and sketching skills to use, but more importantly, to advance my skills in other areas of Architectural representation such as physical modelling and CAD skills by working closely with the Master students in my group who have far more advanced skillsets.
Posted 18 Feb 2026 18:33
Harry B
Hi, my name is Harry Bartholomew, I am currently in my first year of Architecture, BA1. I grew up in a town called Kenilworth.
I studied Physics, Maths and Graphic Design at A-level, gaining the necessary skills for starting Architecture. After studies, I decided to take on a gap year, half working to improve my hospitality skills and half for travel, going around Southeast Asia, all whilst working on my drawing skills. I am loving the course here at MSA so far and am excited to figure out my own architectural interests.
Leisure spaces are a crucial aspect of a community, bringing people together in various ways. Personally, I enjoy the fitness promoted by these leisure spaces, giving access to countless unique activities that cover a large demographic. I am looking forward to working alongside Life Leisure and my team, expanding my skills and experiencing a new, unique challenge.
Posted 19 Feb 2026 13:45
Ziyu L
MArch 1 - Ziyu Liu

Hello everyone, I'm Ziyu Liu, currently a first-year Master of Architecture student. I'm from China and grew up in central China.

I completed my undergraduate studies at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University in a 2+2 program, spending two years at the University of Liverpool. This experience gave me insights into architecture from both China and the UK, and allowed me to experience the differences that two distinct cultural backgrounds bring to the architectural industry. After graduating, I spent a year adjusting, interning at a design institute and traveling to various places to see different landscapes and architecture. This year helped me understand myself better, ultimately leading to my decision to pursue further studies in architecture.

Leisure spaces are a direction I haven't explored in depth before, and I'm very interested in designing public spaces where people gather. I look forward to collaborating with the Life Leisure team on a new challenge!
Posted 19 Feb 2026 14:57
Lok Yiu Charlotte H
BA 1- Charlotte Ho

Hi, I am Charlotte, a first-year BA Architecture student. I am from Hong Kong and have been studying in the UK since I was 12.
My interest in architecture began during a trip to Rome, where experiencing the Pantheon made me reflect on how space, light and form shape atmosphere and human experience. Since then, I have been particularly interested in the relationship between architecture and the communities it serves, and how thoughtful design can develop connection and a sense of belonging.
Being part of the Life Leisure project is especially meaningful to me, as it involves contributing to a communal space with real impact. Working on a live brief makes the design process feel purposeful and responsible.
I am keen to apply my drawing and model-making skills while learning from the Master’s students in my group to further develop my technical understanding. I look forward to contributing fully to Active Axis and growing through this collaborative experience.
Posted 19 Feb 2026 22:40
Qiwei W
MA AR - Qiwei Wu

Hi everyone, I’m Qiwei Wu, currently studying for MA Architecture and Adaptive Reuse. I come from a county which is the largest building stone distribution centre in China. Growing up surrounded by architectural materials laid a natural foundation for me to choose design as my path.

My undergraduate study focused on interior architecture, through which I developed a keen awareness of public space and the unique character of place. Before starting this master’s programme, I also gained hands-on experience from corporate internships, covering interior design, architectural renovation, and spatial curation. This journey has helped me clarify my passion for spatial renewal and adaptive transformation, especially how design can respond to local context instead of creating generic, homogeneous spaces.

I am particularly drawn to projects that revive underused sites and create meaningful public spaces for people to gather and connect. I’m excited to collaborate with the team, explore new challenges in adaptive reuse and public space design, and bring together my background in Environmental Art Design to contribute to our work.
Posted 19 Feb 2026 22:55
Menghan Q
MA AR - Menghan Qu

Hello everyone, I am Menghan Qu. I am studying for a MAAR. I come from China and completed my undergraduate studies here. Deeply influenced by Chinese architectural culture and environment, I also have a strong interest in architecture from various countries, which allows me to better integrate them organically.

I have participated in project practice in an architectural firm, gaining solid professional experience, which has also strengthened my passion for adaptive reuse. I am keen on transforming existing buildings into spaces that combine sustainability and human warmth, respecting history while meeting current functional needs.

I am looking forward to joining the team and working with all of you to complete the project.
Posted 20 Feb 2026 09:32
Nadia Ibrahim Mourad Kadry Ahmed S
My name is Nadia, and I’m a BA1 student. I grew up in Egypt, where I developed a strong curiosity for learning and exploring new ideas. I’m really excited to work on this project because I see it as a great opportunity to grow, gain new experience, and challenge myself in a positive way.
Posted 20 Feb 2026 13:51
Owen B
Course: MArch 1
Atelier: AND

Hi I am Owen. Current MArch 1 student in AND atelier. I graduated from Birmingham School of Architecture in 2023 and spent 2 years in practice, working mainly on residential projects in conservation areas and designing adaptive disabled housing. During my year out, I have gained valuable experience and skills which has made me a more competent designer and developed my pastoral skills.

I am interested in gaining a wider range of project experience involving local communities and creating space for a variety of people. Working with Life Leisure gives me an opportunity to design a space for all demographics in the community and focus on socialising and activity.

I am also looking forward to collaborating with my fellow MArch 1 students and learning from others and teaching what I have learned from my undergraduate and years out to the rest of the group: as well as enjoying designing together and producing some exciting work.
Posted 26 Feb 2026 11:48
Owen B
A short summary from our collaborator: Life Leisure written by Lisa Arrandale


The Active Communities team at Life Leisure is dedicated to improving health, wellbeing, and social connection across Stockport by making physical activity accessible to everyone. We work closely with local residents, community groups, and partner organisations to design programmes that break down barriers, build confidence, and create long‑term positive habits. Our focus is on supporting people who are least likely to engage in traditional leisure settings, ensuring that every individual feels welcomed, valued, and able to thrive.

By working with MSA students, we hope to bring fresh perspectives, creativity, and lived experience into our projects. Students can help us strengthen our understanding of diverse communities, co‑create engaging activities, and develop new approaches to outreach and communication. In return, we aim to offer meaningful real‑world experience, opportunities to lead and collaborate, and insight into community development and public health practice.
Posted 26 Feb 2026 13:37
Tailuu R
Hi I am Tai, I’m a MArch 1 student in the INFRA atelier. I graduated from Birmingham School of Architecture in 2024 spending 1 year in practice. I was involved in predominanetly commercial and adaptive re-use projects; including manufacturing, leisure and retail. During my year in practice I gained invaluable experience and legislative understanding which has solidified my competency as a designer.

I have an interest in urban regeneration and placemaking to create accessible and meaningful public gathering space. Working with Life Leisure, I aim to gain
experience in community involvement to help develop successful space for all the community to engage and enjoy.

I look forward to the new challenge as well as collaborating with the team combining/sharing our multidisciplinary perspectives. Im sure we will feed of one another to learn new skills and develop new lines of enquiry.
Posted 26 Feb 2026 19:46
Zoya K
Zoya Khan - BArch 1

Hi, i’m Zoya! I’m in my first year of BA Architecture. I was born and spent a large part of my childhood in Blackburn, Lancashire, before moving to Greater Manchester where I’ve lived since. From a young age I’ve had a strong passion for design and art. I first knew I wanted to become an architect during my GCSEs, and that interest only grew stronger when I studied 3D Design at A Level, where I really flourished and developed a deeper understanding of spatial design and creativity.
For our project, we are designing a community leisure facility in Stockport. I’m particularly interested in exploring how spatial layout, materiality, and atmosphere can influence the way people interact within a space, and how thoughtful design can encourage connection and activity.
I’m looking forward to working collaboratively with my team and developing a proposal that brings together community, leisure, and everyday experience in an engaging way.
Posted 3 Mar 2026 19:00
Lok Yiu Charlotte H
Second Meeting 17/2/2026 – From Ideas to Action

Today’s session marked a strong progression from our introductory meeting into a more structured action plan. Since last week, the poster team has produced a beautiful poster that captures the essence of Active Axis. We began by reviewing it together as a group, discussing refinements and ensuring that the key principles: accessibility, vibrancy, community, greenery etc. were communicated effectively.
We then shifted our focus towards the practical foundations of the project. We divided into four groups to work efficiently: Budget Planning, Risk Assessment, Project Timeline and Ethics Application. Each group was led by at least one Master’s student, supporting BA1 students. Working in a focused 30-minute interval, we developed our respective sections before regrouping to share progress. This allowed everyone to comment, add missing details and stay aligned with each other’s work.
The Budget team presented first, followed by the Risk Assessment team. As discussions developed, we agreed that we should work on the Ethics Application collaboratively to reflect the shared responsibility of the project. We concluded by reviewing and refining the timeline, adding more detailed stages to ensure clarity moving forward.
Our tutor later joined us to provide feedback on the poster and guidance on today’s tasks, helping us refine and strengthen our direction. Towards the end of the session, we began brainstorming ideas for community engagement, including integrating a QR code on the poster or organising a physical activity, both aimed at encouraging the users to contribute their opinions on what they would like to see within the community.
We ended by summarising progress, setting deadlines and allocating responsibilities, ensuring clear direction for the week ahead. Check the next blog as Active Axis continues to grow.
Posted 4 Mar 2026 11:36