The aim of the project is to explore how the adaptable framework of community led housing and its ownership, development and participation models can create affordable homes in our ever- changing living environment. The project aimed to redistribute population density and economic growth, by using the declining shopping centre typology as a vessel that could guide cities towards a more sustainable polycentric plan.

The shopping centre was designed at the height of consumerism; however, the project explores how this can be inverted both conceptually and architecturally in order to foster post consumerist lifestyles. This is achieved through addressing the five key needs of Anti-consumerism: Housing, Health, Transport, Education and Arts. This creates incentives for self-sustaining local production and promotes the transition from a materialistic to a convivial and participatory society.

The outcome of the project is the creation of a step-by-step manual which can be given to every local council throughout Greater Manchester, to bring new life to the shopping centre typology and satellite towns

Thesis Tutors

Johanna Muszbek
Pietro Pezzani

Thesis Critcs

Michael Wilford
Nick Ray