"I want to build things that will explore new depths of the sea."

Posted 21.07.2021

Make recently hosted five students from the inaugural People’s Pavilion competition, helping them make models to further develop their shortlisted designs. The two teams spent all day in our studio working with architect David Patterson and modelmaker Susie Cole, and having a chat with writer and editor Emily Lauffer. Here, she talks to 15-year-old Dhara from Woodford County High School.

How and when did you develop an interest in architecture?

I initially developed an interest in architecture when I was 10 years old. One of my uncles designed his own house, it was really cool and big. I wanted to do the same and build nice houses. But I’m interested in pursuing engineering now.

Engineering? Wow! Do you have any ideas on which area?

I’m interested in marine engineering. I want to build things that will explore new depths of the sea.

That’s fascinating. You just finished your GCSEs as well – what are you going to study for your A-Levels?

I have, yes. I studied Design and Technology for five years, from years 7-11. For my A-Levels, I’m going to study Art, Maths and Physics. I think it will help me prepare for a future in engineering.

How have you found the experience?

It’s a good experience that’s different from school. I didn’t realise that architects don’t actually make the building models! It’s really cool that modelmaking is its own job and has its own university course, so that’s been interesting to learn.

How would you describe the concept of your pavilion?

We came up with an idea of young children following bees so it’s very geometric, like a honeycomb hexagonal shape. It’s an area for anyone to congregate from the nearby arts college to do fashion, music, and community activities. There are hexagonal-shaped planters as well as vines on the roof and plants on every windowsill. The ground is smooth so wheelchair users can access the pavilion and those who are unstable have handrail support.

What are your thoughts on involving young people in projects like this?

Younger people have different perspectives on what they need so it’s good to include their views. I feel like it’s good to have nice places to take photos too as social media is such a big part of young people’s lives.

What’s your impression of Here East and how do you think your pavilion may work in the site’s context?

It’s very industrial and it has a lot of big, colourful buildings. Our pavilion will provide a contrast because it’s very natural as it’s made of wood.

Read our Q&A with Dhara’s teammate, Antonia.

Beyond the Box consultants, who are running the initiative, recently announced the winning design team last from a shortlist of nine. A public vote of over 1,300 local people selected Shahriyar Ahmed (18), Samira Elbahja (17) and Dellilah Jamal’s (17) design, ‘The Reverie’, as the winner.