Alyssia Thompson: Part II Architectural Assistant

Alyssa graduated from Newcastle University in July 2022. She has a keen interest in the retrofit and reestablishment of existing buildings. Her Graduate Portfolio centred around the reuse and repurposing of Sunderland Civic Centre, a decommissioned Brutalist building, where she reimaged the building’s role as a new community space, reducing the need for demolition of a building which had not yet reached its potential lifespan.  She also has an interested in the use and development of sustainable technologies across all scopes of architectural development.

Other Interests:

In her spare time Alyssia enjoys painting and creating digital artwork.  She also enjoys running, both with her local running club and socially with friends around the Lake District. She completed her first half marathon at the Great North Run in September 2022 and aims to run more races in the coming year.

Favourite Building:

Alyssia’s favourite building and example of conservation is Zaha Hadid’s Port Authority Building (Zaha Hadidplein) in Antwerp, Belgium. She finds the juxtaposition between the strong geometry of the new glass construction above and the former fire station underneath creates a sense of initial shock. The government building is a successful example by maintaining an original structure while creating balance with a new addition. The extension doesn’t outshine the existing building, but its contrasting language compliments the former fire station’s features. The elements taken to conserve the existing building include the creation of a glass-covered courtyard, which turned a previously external space into the foyer and meeting place for the Port Authority Building. The ability to gather within the building allows for appreciation of both the new and old elements.