Abstract

This research project aimed to address questions of design quality in the built environment as faced on a day to day basis in one of the most deprived cities in Britain, such as: Who is Design for? What is good Design? Can “ordinary” people aspire to the best? Can the quality of new building proposals be raised? Method - A series of interlinked programmes were proposed to engage with: School Pupils and Students – By working directly in schools through live projects & workshops to raise interest and enthusiasm for design. Decision Makers: By delivering capacity building training on design quality and how to recognise it. Developers: By delivering Design Review Panels to raise the quality of planning applications. Residents: By working in Hull’s Pathfinder area to deliver capacity building and ownership of design. Professionals: By delivering seminars/lectures/workshops addressing issues such as participation in design/sustainability. General Public: By delivering exhibitions/ workshops/events which are open to everyone. Dissemination - The programmes are delivered both in Arc’s own building in Hull, off site in schools, council meeting rooms, public venues of various kinds throughout Hull and the sub region and on line through ARC’s website. Evidence of Esteem - The Commission of Architecture and the built Environment called the funding bid “ exemplary “ and sought permission to use it as a model for future architecture centres. In 2005 CABE awarded ARC the largest single revenue stream outside of London. As a venue ARC is attracting national players ie Sorrel Foundation. Partnership working with Integrate Yorkshire has been developed. Head teachers report increased interest/concern in environment issues generally. Design Review has, by invitation been extended to include East Yorkshire. Exhibitions: Grown a public audience for Architectural exhibitions where there previously was none.