Hi, I’m Daria Anwar, a BA1 Architecture student from Manchester.

I’m passionate about how architecture shapes the way we live — particularly within communities facing conflict and displacement. I aspire to design spaces that not only provide shelter, but also restore dignity, identity, and a sense of stability.

Being involved in The Talk Shop project offers an exciting opportunity to explore how design can create inclusive and supportive environments within the local community. I’m especially interested in how thoughtful spatial design can encourage connection, conversation, and a sense of belonging.

As I begin my architectural journey, I’m excited to develop both the creative and technical skills needed to design with empathy and purpose, while learning from the diverse perspectives of my peers.

User engagement was a central part of our project to allow us to understand the needs, experiences and aspirations of the young people who use the space. To better understand the youth centre’s environment, we engaged with regular participants who consistently contribute their time to the space at the Talkshop, aged between 11 to 19.

We started to engage through informal discussions, annotated floor plans- where participants could sketch over them and add their ideas-and the use of a model as a visual guide. This helped us gain insight into what the space needs, its value to the people and the challenges they experience on a daily basis. It will help us further develop the youth centre to ensure that we provide an inclusive and engaging environment for the youth.