I have applied to study at MSA first and foremost because of its excellent reputation. An architecture degree from MSA will, I feel, enable me to gain a variety of skills and experience, but very importantly, set me on the path to pursue a career in architecture. MSA is one of the largest architecture schools in the UK which appeals to me because I favour busy environments with many people around me. From the MSA website and Manchester University prospectus, I am drawn to the emphasis on studio design because it enables students to visualize architecture spatially.
Although I am British, living in Switzerland has allowed me to perceive architecture through the eyes of the Swiss, namely the evolvement of architecture within the snowy climate and the many Le Corbusier inspired buildings. Coincidentally a building that appealed to me on a visit to London was designed by Swiss architects: Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron, the creators of the Tate Modern Gallery. The genius of transforming a former power station into a monumental building shows that architecture has no boundaries. The immense height of the building, with light flooding in from the large window projects a feeling of awe, reminding me of a cathedral, drawing the eye above. Furthermore, this sustainable method of creating architecture from an unused building, especially in an area where aerial space is in high demand, shows architectural intellect and brilliance. Where space is limited, I think we should focus on building on Brownfield sites, as opposed to Greenfield, in order to improve the quality of architecture in our environment.
My favourite building is the Zentrum Paul Klee Museum in Bern by Renzo Piano, an architect I greatly admire. The unique undulating structure imitates the rolling hills behind, thus creating a sense of melting into the landscape. From inside the building, the variation of height enables oneself to experience its form both inside and out. What I like about the museum is that its shape has never been seen before in a building. It is an example of architecture which encompasses social and technological changes, where architects, like Renzo Piano, strive to create new innovations.
Having studied line, form and space in Art, Deconstructivist architecture has always appealed to me. An architect who I have subsequently studied is Daniel Libeskind. My favorite of his buildings is the Denver Art Museum, Colorado. The building defies conventional modernist forms of geometric shape and instead projects sharp angels and overhangs. Concrete, an influential material for architecture, makes the museum look light yet strong. The daring rebellious forms shows architecture has no limits and nothing is better than architecture one hasn’t seen before.
