As part of this year’s graduate summer shows, we are chatting with some of our final-year students to hear more about the projects they are currently working on.
The Art and Design Summer show features the work of final year students studying architecture, interior architecture, design engineering, sustainable design, interior design, fashion history, product design, and art and design history.
We recently caught up with Neve, who is studying Interior Architecture BA(Hons), to hear more about her work, influences and the valuable experience she has gained at Brighton.
My influences and passions
“As an interior architect, my design process revolves around understanding the user’s experience and programmatic needs, firstly before applying an experimental approach as to how sustainable/site reclaimed materials can be used to repurpose existing spaces.
“My current project is part of an exciting opportunity to work with Kent, Sussex and surrey air ambulance service to redesign their base of operations and alleviate the crew of sick building syndrome. The project has a focus on using natural, site local materials of various scales in various systems to both ground the design in sustainable practice and educate us as designers to the opportunities that come with less conventional, low embodied-carbon material palettes.”
Why Interior Architecture at Brighton?
“I chose to study interior architecture following an Art & Design foundation course in Nottingham wherein I learned about the course for the first time. Architecture had always seemed like a natural pursuit for me with an interest in both art and maths from an early age but what made me gravitate towards interior architecture in particular was the principle’s sustainable practice. The re-use of existing sites is becoming more and more prevalent in the age of climate crisis and to me interior architecture is the course best equipped to teach me future design approaches. Additionally, I find the problem solving that comes with working with an existing space over a blank canvas to be more stimulating and often has the ability to push my design towards a more exciting result.
“I chose Brighton to study interior architecture mainly because of the fantastic location. The city itself is vibrant and diverse and accompanied by the beach which provides the important ability to foster both a sense of belonging and relieve any academic stress.
It is safe to say that my time with Brighton has demonstrated how much the area leads in the innovation and practice of sustainable and circular economy design. Brighton to me is a home away from home. The people I have met along the way have only cemented my love for this quirky and diverse city.”
University experience and development
“My favourite part of my studies has certainly been my most recent project. The opportunity to work with actual clients was both inspiring and insightful as to how design in practice could look like. The accompaniment of natural material specialist and designer Daniel Yoell as a tutor was also super insightful and has certainly sparked an interest in pursuing architecture that involves unconventional materials.”
Inspirational staff
“Brighton Alumni and staff member Duncan Baker-Brown and his research on architectural circular economy practice has had a huge influence on the way I look to reimagine existing sites by re-using the existing. Daniel Yoell and his knowledge of natural materials in architectural practice have shaped my design approach, accompanied by Dr Peter Marsh and his outlook on materiality as an experience. Another notable mention is Rafaella Siagkri with her 3d visualisation knowledge and passion, supporting my own interests in 3D digital software.
“All the staff and tutors at Brighton have been amazing at supporting both my studies but also me as an individual, and I can’t imagine receiving this kind of treatment anywhere else.”
Looking ahead after graduation
“My plans for after graduation include a well-deserved rest, followed promptly by some portfolio refinement so that I can apply for an internship back at home in Nottingham.
“My interest in sustainable design will push me to look for architectural or interior design practices that hold the same design principles in most likely retrofit projects.”
Words of wisdom
“My advice for future students is not to be afraid to ask for feedback or extra support. Tutors want nothing but the best for you and I have never left a tutorial feeling worse than I did coming in.”
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