In year one, all units focus on developing simple key skills such as hand drawing, model-making, and critical thinking through the designing of a small community building, equipping us with the fundamental tools to advance into subsequent years.

In semester two students take part in the Comprehensive Design Project, where each student chooses from four different project briefs and four local sites within the Nottingham city centre. The site I chose was Brewhouse Yard located at the base of Nottingham Castle Rock due to the greenness of the site along with the ‘Early Years Development Hub’ project brief.

My project focuses on designing a secure yet open educational space, prioritising the safety and comfort of children while supporting parents and guardians. This educational centre serves as a welcoming environment where children can learn and grow in a protected setting.

Additionally, the centre aims to enhance the local community by incorporating a community kitchen. This kitchen offers both indoor and outdoor seating within this green haven in the heart of Nottingham. By using locally sourced materials combined with a green roof, the project creates a strong connection to the local surroundings, fostering a sense of community and sustainability.