Taught course

Architecture and Adaptive Reuse

Institution
Manchester Metropolitan University · Manchester School of Architecture
Qualifications
MA

Entry requirements

You will normally have at least an upper second class undergraduate UK honours degree (or international equivalent) in a related field, including architecture, architecture technology, conservation, spatial design or interior architecture, or an equivalent architectural, design or humanities based undergraduate degree (including history, geography, urbanism, conservation, heritage, environmental science, architectural or design history).

Equivalent EU/international qualifications are also accepted. Applicants who do not meet these criteria will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Other professional qualifications or degree disciplines will be considered on merit and/or with relevant professional experience.
We require the submission of a digital portfolio to evidence design/architectural practice and research, and may request an interview as part of the application process. Applicants with an undergraduate degree in architecture, interiors, design or art should make a 10-15 page portfolio that shows work that has been produced during the UG programme, if you have spent time in practice then that should also be included. If you do not have this background, then the portfolio should contain examples of work completed during the UG programme, such as a report or study, plus any post-degree work that you have completed - again 10-15 pages.
Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification.

Months of entry

September

Course content

MA Architecture and Adaptive Reuse is a programme about existing buildings, situations and places, and how over time these structures and locations can be encouraged to evolve, sustain new uses, and accommodate new users. Students on the course will investigate strategies for adaptive reuse - strategies that are not applied as a reaction to current conditions, but in anticipation of future changes.

Adaptation is now at the forefront of architectural practice; two of the most pressing challenges in the 21st century are climate change and urbanisation. Given that already more than half of the global population live in urban environments, and by 2050, it is projected that over 70% of the world population will live in cities, all societies need to be able to accommodate growth while at the same time, reducing consumption. The existing building stock needs to become both more efficient and more resilient.

In Manchester School of Architecture, students will investigate the four main aspects of sustainable reuse - environmental, societal, inhabitation and economic – while also exploring heritage, history, memory, community, and the influence these factors have on remodelling activities. They will look at the impact that context and the environment have upon projects, while developing an understanding of some of the technical issues including construction, environmental control, and materials in order to make creative and appropriate proposals for new users of buildings. Students will also examine specific examples of adaptive reuse, theories of reuse and explore strategies for the conservation and adaptation of the existing environment.­­

The specialist workshops within Manchester School of Art and the University of Manchester will provide students with opportunities to explore materiality, fabrication, and the realisation of ideas. Studio teaching is research-informed and underpinned by design research methodologies and engagement with industry.

Features and benefits:
  • Shape the future of the built environment by exploring new, heritage friendly and sustainable approaches to development.
  • RIBA award-winning buildings provide high-quality facilities and learning environments.
  • Benefit from building, industry and workshop visits alongside collaborative projects with students, clients and users.
  • Study a degree that is delivered jointly by The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. You will benefit from the facilities and resources of both institutions such as libraries, computer suites, making and media workshops and much more. Upon successful completion of your studies, you will receive one degree certificate. The joint award certificate includes each institution’s crest and awarding body title.

Information for international students

Please visit the international page.

Fees and funding

For further information please see the fees and funding page.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MA
    part time
    24 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
    full time
    12 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Course Enquiries Team
Email
courses@mmu.ac.uk
Phone
+44 (0)161 247 6969