Following a Body and Performance workshop with Emma Hoette, we began developing a research methodology which would allow us to analyse the architecture at a fundamentally human scale. Too often are modern event spaces dictated purely on practicality at the expense of the experience. Our methods focused on painting an ‘Eventscape’ through human movement in relation to the surrounding architectural fabric. By analysing space through a series of scores (explorations with defined parameters), we began to be able to understand a more apparent relationship between people and place during event and non-event modes.

At the time of our research method development, we were in contact with tutor and 1874 Northwich F.C. board member Luke Bushnell-Wye. Early conversations regarding the history and development of Northwich exposed surprising references to Drama and our explorations in Greece. Both towns share ancient pasts. These similarities allowed us to use our methodologies to approach our current thesis, looking at how exercising grass roots sport and leisure interventions as a catalyst for community rejuvenation and increased pedestrian activity can create an active network for existing residents to feel a greater topophilia with Northwich. Our emphasis lies heavily on the scales and temporality of the spectacle and spectator. Using architecture to create a more dynamic user experience, ultimately creating a more sustainable future for sport and leisure in Northwich.

Our project has analysed thoroughly and responded respectfully to the historical and cultural history of Northwich. Using our research methodology to develop a coherent and in-depth design response has enabled the proposal to be dynamic and responsive to the needs of the existing Northwich community, with a focus on social and environmental sustainability to ensure the future proofing of the town’s leisure scene.

Thesis Tutors

Ray, Lucretia
Bushnell-Wye, Luke
Dr Mary Shepperson

Thesis VP

Peter Farall

Thesis Critcs

Peter Farrall
Richard Koeck
Hamid Khalili

Special Mentions

We would like to express the utmost gratitude to our tutors Lucretia Ray, Luke Bushnell-Wye and Mary Shepperton, who have pushed our concept and theories to guide us through a final semester we are very proud of. We thank them for the time and energy they have invested in our thesis project.

We are also extremely grateful for the recognition of the requirement for a break room in the School of Architecture. Without the provisions for leisure in the building, our health and well-being would have suffered greatly and we hope this is retained and improved moving forwards.

Finally, we express our fullest appreciation to the University of Liverpool’s School of Architecture for supporting our research and development.