I'm Kylian Parvin, BA1 student at MSA.

Before beginning my studies in architecture, I spent seven years studying and working in the Merchant Navy and the superyachting industry as an officer. During that time, I had the opportunity to travel to 53 countries, experiencing a wide range of cultures, cities, and coastal environments. Living and working at sea taught me discipline, responsibility, and the importance of precision; qualities that now influence the way I approach design.

Travelling extensively also shaped my understanding of place and context. Being exposed to different architectural styles, urban conditions, and landscapes sparked my interest in how environments shape human experience. Transitioning into architecture feels like a natural progression, allowing me to translate those global experiences into thoughtful and grounded design.

This week we met up and drove to Monton Unitarian Church for a site visit. We were able to walk around the bowling green, taking in the surroundings, photos, and relevant measurements.

We then met up with our client, Reverend Anna, and presented the work and design we made so far. She liked the design as well as the precedents we used for it and had feedback about changes she would like to see: prioritising a fixed roof over fixed structure (better weather proofing), feedback on size & location of structure on the site, and overall feedback on expectations.

Overall we enjoyed the site visit as well as Anna’s feedback very much, and found it very valuable. We established some next steps, and discussed the feasibility & budget of the project. As it is ambitious with the given budget, we might have difficulties to see the project to construction within the time given. Therefore we mentioned the possibility to work towards a finished design & fundraising for next year’s group (or potential different adaptive reuse projects).