Personal Statement

Manchester University intrigued me as its Architecture course focuses on interaction and connectivity. I admire these qualities as I am drawn to the ability to work and learn with specialists in this field. The open studios in the MSA allow for creative and inspiring conversations between students. Moreover, I admire the opportunity to benefit from the expertise of the collaboration between The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University.  Furthering my education in Architecture at Manchester, this course would allow me to develop my knowledge and skills in my career. 

Ole Scheeren is a German architect whose work and values inspire me and reflect my own. The designs he produces, along with his team and collaborators in the Buro Ole Sheeran Group, ensure maintaining the significance of connectivity and community – a principle I agree with. These morals are present in the larger projects, such as The Interlace, A residential complex in Singapore, all the way to the smaller projects, such as the Archipelago Cinema in Venice. I admire Scheeren and his team’s ability to reimagine and create new concepts within architecture, allowing their work to be highlighted among the neighbouring buildings. These morals and values are traits I would accommodate into my work while studying at Manchester.

A building I recently visited is Guildford Castle, located in Surrey. The castle was believed to be built after the Norman Invasion in 1066 and was opened to the public in 1888 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee. A fascinating aspect I learnt about Guildford castle is the patches of different coloured bricks, having distinct levels of weathering. These bricks provide insight into the repair and restoration of the aged fortress, demonstrating the impressive collaboration between numerous individuals and groups throughout its lifetime. Guildford Castle is constructed on a hill designed to overlook the town below it. Walking through the gardens, I appreciated the fishponds to sit beside and the floral displays planted yearly. Guildford castle is a beautiful piece of history that is constantly maintained for the enjoyment of its visitors.

1000 Trees is a building I would like to visit and experience in person. It separates itself from the ocean of characterless buildings surrounding it; Singapore has a reputation for constructing numerous residential complexes that blur and merge with their skyline. 1000 Trees provides a sense of sanctity and protection from repeating concrete skyscrapers. I appreciate its ability to stand out and its use of green space and nature within its architecture. Visiting this building would be a valuable opportunity to analyse and understand the interaction and connection between structures and inhabitants.