Course: MArch 1
Atelier: Infrastructure Space

After completing my undergraduate studies in China and gaining my Part 1 experience through professional practice, I developed a strong interest in how architecture responds to real contexts. An internship in the Nujiang region was especially influential, deepening my understanding of the relationship between nature, landscape, and the built environment. I am currently part of the Infrastructure atelier, exploring architecture through systems, public space, and ecological thinking. Through MSA Live, I am excited to work with the Canal & River Trust on a Grade II listed heritage project and further develop my skills in collaborative design.

Project Kick-off
3 February 2026

Today marked our first official group meeting and the beginning of a collaborative and exploratory journey. We selected one of the suggested ice-breaker activities, allowing us to get to know each other in a relaxed and engaging way, setting a positive tone for our collaboration. We engaged in a focused discussion prompted by guidelines on working methods, clarifying individual preferences, communication styles, and collaborative approaches to lay the groundwork for effective teamwork. Based on the project brief, we compiled a list of questions to better understand the project context and needs during our upcoming meeting with the collaborator. In the evening, we met with our collaborator from Liverpool. Through face-to-face conversation, we gained a clearer understanding of the project’s main content, vision, and expectations, further defining the direction for our research and design.
It has been an inspiring start—everyone is enthusiastic and looking forward to the journey ahead. We’ll keep you updated as we progress. Stay tuned!

Site Visit to Albert Dock, Liverpool
8 February 2026

On a clear and bright February day, our team took the train together to Liverpool for our first site visit at Albert Dock. The journey was a great chance to bond further, and the lively atmosphere along the waterfront immediately set an inspiring tone for the day.
We walked along the docks, taking in the spatial qualities and surrounding context. The area was vibrant with activity—especially runners passing by—yet we observed that the project site itself currently lacks inviting spaces that encourage people to pause and stay. This insight has already sparked meaningful conversation about how we can reintroduce pause, engagement, and connection into the heritage setting.
We documented views, discussed impressions, and took reference photos before gathering for a group photo at the site—a tangible marker of our first collective field experience.
Back in the studio, we’ll begin translating these observations into initial design approaches.
More updates to come as our research deepens!

Developing Our Project Framework
17 February 2026

During today’s session, we focused on advancing several key project components. BA1 students began by sketching draft poster concepts, followed by a full-group discussion to finalise the design direction. We also uploaded recent blog posts and officially launched tasks including the project timeline, ethics application, risk assessment, and budget proposal, using the provided templates as a starting point.
It was a productive and collaborative afternoon—everyone engaged actively, and we’re making clear progress toward our upcoming milestones.

Shaping the Project Framework & Design Direction
3 March 2026

In our third group session, we continued developing core project documents—including the Budget Proposal, Ethics Application, Project Timeline, and Risk Assessment—followed by collaborative research into relevant case studies. Through analysis and discussion, we began to shape our design approach and clarify the conceptual logic behind our proposal.
It was a focused and insightful meeting, moving us closer to a coherent and well-structured project foundation.