Personal statement

My reasons for wanting to study at the Manchester School of Architecture (MSA)

MSA is a collaboration between the University of Manchester and the Manchester Metropolitan University. Studying in MSA will grant me the opportunity to access resources such as studios and libraries from both schools, benefiting my studies. MSA is also one of the most privileged schools for architecture students. It has appealed to students from various countries. Besides, the vibrant city of Manchester, a well-established metropolis full of architectural history and cultural background has fascinated me a lot. Its cultural diversity is good for widening my horizons and enhancing my creativity. I am looking forward to experiencing a variety of academic and social events in this energetic campus. 

My own review of a recent exhibition or building that I have visited

I visited the architectural exhibition of “I. M. Pei - Life is Architecture”. It is a tribute to Chinese architect I. M. Pei. It demonstrated not only drafts and processes of his successful projects, but also blueprints of unconstructed works. One of his most notable projects was the glass pyramid at the Louvre Museum. Constructing a modern structure in a classical setting, the design was once disliked by the Parisians, but time proved the criticism wrong, as it eventually became the landmark of the city. I have understood that architects should be equipped with a vision ahead of others. Inspired by his design for the Museum of Islamic Art, which combined Islamic architecture with postmodern features, I believe that architecture has an inseparable relationship with people and culture. 

A statement about my favourite building

Oslo Opera House is my favourite building. From the outside, the building is split into two parts with marble-constructed roofs tilted opposite to each other, looking like an ‘iceberg’, which suits the coastal location of the architecture. The roof gently descends down and gradually reaches ground level, turning it into part of the open space. Pedestrians can walk all the way up to the roof of the building and enjoy the breathtaking views of Oslo. It fascinates me because most of the buildings don’t have their roof open to the public. However, this design makes me feel engaged even though I am outside the building, and invites me to experience Oslo by standing on the top of the largest construction in the city. 

A work of architecture that I would like to experience in person

Westminster Abbey is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, renowned for its stunning design and intricate details. On the exterior, there are pointed archs on delicately crafted windows and doors that show Gothic characteristics, and the magnificent flying buttresses that provide support to the structure. Inside, the abbey is illuminated by stained glass windows that illustrate biblical characters, while the stone carvings on the ceiling demonstrates the elegant style of the royal church. I want to visit Westminster Abbey to admire its architectural beauty, as well as to immerse myself in the rich historical setting.