Professor Lorraine Farrelly
A public lecture about the University’s influence on the region’s architecture is taking place on Wednesday 19 October.
Professor Lorraine Farrelly will talk about how the University’s School of Architecture has had an effect on the region’s built environment through student projects and by working with local businesses. At her inaugural lecture, Professor Farrelly will discuss the relationship between the way architecture is taught at the University and the effect of the institution’s physical presence on the city’s landscape.
She said: “The University has a strong connection to the region through practice and education with the city’s heritage helping to shape the learning experience of the architecture students here at Portsmouth and the students giving something back through their work on real projects in the city.”
Lorraine believes that students should work on real urban design problems and wherever possible involves students on projects in the city. Through the School’s Project Office, which acts as an architectural consultancy, local businesses can draw on the on the talent and expertise of staff and students who can fulfil their brief. Together they create design ideas and visionary solutions for clients, spending time understanding the real social issues, including the demographics of the area and the needs of the local community.
Last year ten student interns worked to develop ideas to revitalise two churches and designed a multi-purpose community building for a church in Havant and this year several students provided a design make-over for the Isle of Wight zoo.
Professor Farrelly said: “As well as providing a range of ideas for the clients, students gain invaluable work experience on real projects and see their skills appreciated and applied in the community.”
Lorraine is an architect who believes in promoting the architectural discipline from a grass roots level and who is passionate about the urban spaces in which we live. For five years she has been a member of the SERDP South East Regional Development Panel, a design review service which advises on strategic urban and architectural development across the South.
She is on several award panels including the Building for Life Housing Awards, a national scheme celebrating well-designed housing projects and neighbourhoods, for which she is an assessor, and the British Urban Regeneration Awards which encourages initiatives in developing sustainable design tools for cities. Last year she was a judge for the Solent Design Awards which recognise the region’s best public spaces and places.
Admission to the lecture is free, but places are limited so please make a reservation by emailing events@port.ac.uk or by calling 023 9284 3757.
