OPEN is a physical and digital exhibition that features a broad range of innovative work from first to final-year students, within the School of Architecture + Cities. The exhibition launched with an in-person private view attended by guests which included students, staff, family, friends, employers and the public. The private view took place at our architecture studios based at the University’s Marylebone campus. The physical exhibition was open for one month and open to the public. 

The show was opened by George Clarke, an English architect, television presenter, lecturer, and writer. George is also the founder of the educational charity MOBIE (Ministry of Building Innovation and Education), which inspires young people to design and build the homes of the future. In his opening remarks, he reflected on his own journey into architecture and his time as a student, where he was mentored by his tutor, now the Head of the School of Architecture + Cities at Westminster, Harry Charrington.  

We caught up with two students from our Architectural Technology BSc and Architecture and Environmental Design BSc courses during the celebratory exhibition to learn more about their final project, experiences and future plans.  

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Canning Town’s Regenerative Islamic Gardens – Lauren Willhnghanz 

Lauren’s project addresses a London community’s need for access to fresh food. Her innovative mosque design also tackles the climate crisis through strategic architectural elements, including sun carvings that minimise shadows on surrounding buildings. The design features pedestrian-friendly urban planning, local food harvesting, and efficient food waste removal. Guests were invited to explore Lauren’s designs through an interactive screen, enhancing their engagement with her vision. 

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Looking back on her course, Lauren describes it as highly rigorous, valuing its data-driven approach and focus on future implications of design. This experience has deepened her appreciation for buildings that consider future climate challenges. 

As an international student from a quiet suburban town, Lauren found studying in the vibrant city of London and engaging in a progressive course like Architecture and Environmental Design BSc to be a transformative experience. She is very grateful for this opportunity and particularly praised the Fabrication Lab, an incredible facility crucial to her development, where she also secured a part-time position during her second year. 

Looking ahead, Lauren aims to continue her academic journey internationally and aspires to build a career in environmental design. 

Experience the Mashrabiya Tradition – Hamad AlHinti 

The mashrabiya is a traditional feature of Islamic architecture, characterised by its carved wood latticework. This traditional design offers inhabitants the dual benefits of outward visibility while maintaining privacy, along with providing shade, ventilation, and a communal space. 

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In his innovative project, Hamad seamlessly integrates the traditional mashrabiya into modern architecture, focusing on its shading properties to create a design that not only reduces direct sunlight but also enhances both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Hamad created a step-by-step guide, inviting visitors to engage and experience the mashrabiya first-hand through his model. 

Reflecting on his academic journey, Hamad enjoyed exploring sustainability and its integration into architectural design and construction.   

He praised the cutting-edge facilities, highlighting the Fabrication Laboratory, which includes a dedicated materials shop and advanced labs such as laser cutting. These facilities were crucial in helping him create his architectural models throughout his course. 

He appreciated the nurturing environment of tutors and staff and felt confident of receiving assistance whenever needed. 

Looking ahead, upon completing his studies, Hamad plans to embark on a gap year in the industry, to enrich his practical experience before pursuing further studies at master’s level. His ultimate aspiration is to return to his native Saudi Arabia, where he aims to apply the knowledge and expertise gained during his course, especially in advancing sustainable architectural practices. 

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To find out more about our architecture courses and the wide range of exciting student projects, visit the digital exhibition OPEN 2024. You can also read more about our student projects from the Architecture BA and Interior Architecture BA in our OPEN 2024 Degree Show – Hear from our students blog.  

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About Westminster  

As one of the most diverse universities in the UK, we are a global university with London energy, with more than 19,000 students from 169 countries. 

To find out more about the University programmes featured in our OPEN exhibition, visit the Architecture, Interiors and Urban Design page.