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 started with a selected ice-breaker activity, which helped everyone get to know each other in a relaxed and engaging way, setting a positive tone for our teamwork. Following that, we held a focused discussion to clarify our working methods, communication styles, and collaborative approaches—laying a clear foundation for how we’ll work together.

In preparation for the client meeting, we reviewed the project brief and compiled a list of questions to better understand the site and its context. Later in the evening, we met with our collaborators: representatives from the Canal & River Trust​. Through an open conversation, we gained a clearer understanding of the Hartley Huts—a pair of Grade II listed structures dating back to 1832—along with the project’s vision, expectations, and the community-centred ambitions for the Albert Dock area. This dialogue helped further define the direction for our research and design.

It has been an inspiring and informative 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.

Site Visit to Albert Dock, Liverpool​
3 March 2026

The site visit offered a rare and valuable opportunity to access the Hartley Huts, a Grade II listed heritage structure, which significantly deepened our understanding of the project. Being able to enter the structures allowed us to experience its spatial and material qualities firsthand, beyond what drawings or photographs could convey.

The visit was highly productive, as it sparked a wide range of new ideas and directions for our design. Observing the existing conditions, structure, and atmosphere helped clarify both the potentials and constraints of working within a heritage context. It also made us more aware of the sensitivity required when intervening in such a historically significant site.

Engaging with our collaborators, particularly Canal & River Trust volunteers and Architect Richard Banks, provided valuable professional insight. Conversations with both the architects and the volunteers enriched our understanding of the site’s history, ongoing use, and community value.

Overall, the experience has been extremely helpful in shaping our design approach. It reinforced the importance of on-site engagement and collaboration, and it will directly inform more grounded, context-sensitive proposals moving forward.

Finalising Design Directions & Preparing for the Site Meeting​
17 March 2026

In our fourth group session, we focused on consolidating design ideas and planning for the upcoming site meeting on 31 March. The team engaged in detailed brainstorming on the interior spaces of the Hartley Huts, reviewed initial sketches and material studies, and incorporated structured feedback on our project plan from our tutor Jason.

To prepare for the client presentation, we have outlined the following deliverables and divided tasks accordingly. BA1 and Foundation students will take the lead in developing material studies, ramp proposals, and an indicative site plan that highlights key interventions—including the volunteer hub, heritage display hut, bridge upgrades, accessible ramp, seating areas, and seasonal event features.

The goal is to communicate our design intent clearly and gather valuable feedback, which will help us refine the proposals in the coming weeks leading to the final presentation.

We are all set for an insightful client meeting and look forward to sharing our progress!