Statement

Why I want to study architecture at MSA

I have a keen interest in architecture because my family has a long connection with the construction industry and I have been fortunate enough to visit to a number of beautiful cities across Europe and North America, showing me the impact architecture has on its surroundings and the people who use the spaces. I want to study architecture because I love art and design and have developed a huge interest in the subject and I want to develop my knowledge and abilities further and hopefully build a long, enjoyable and successful career out of it. Architecture plays a huge part in peoples lives, as it creates spaces that can influence and enhance the ways in which people think and feel, and I want to be involved in creating this.  I love the variety in the subject and the fact that no two buildings are the same and also how design can divide opinion.

I am applying to study at MSA because it’s reputation and facilities are second to none and when I visited on the open day it was clear how friendly, knowledgeable and supportive the staff and students were.  This coupled with my desire to fulfill my potential has helped me to reach my decision to apply. I realise how crucial it is to choose the right university and I feel that the MSA is perfect for me because of it’s creative, workmanlike and relaxed feel, which I am sure will bring out the best in me.

Review of a recent building

My 6th form college building is one that I use regularly and is very interesting in my opinion. It contains a huge contrast between the beautiful old original design, and the new modern annexes. I feel that the two styles coexist well and give the building a sense of individuality. The old section gives the building its character and a feeling of traditions of the past whereas the modern section uses contemporary materials to create a lively and open feel.

Favourite architect/building

St Peter’s Basilica in Rome is one of my favourite buildings because of the sheer extravagance and power it displays, creating a huge impact on the viewer. Designed over decades by a number of Italy’s finest architects such as Michelangelo, the cathedral displays both renaissance and baroque styles of architecture on a grand scale. The historical importance of the site and the sheer size of the building with its intricate detail make it one of the most important structures on the planet.

A building I’d like to visit

Rem Koolhaas’ CCTV headquarters in Beijing is a building that I’d love to visit and experience. The building sparks a huge interest in me in terms of design and construction because of its irregular and unusual shape.