Central Saint Martins UAL
Specialisms: Architecture / Design for Social Good / Sustainable Design
Location: London, United Kingdom
First Name: Natalia
Last Name: Augustynowicz
Specialisms: Architecture / Design for Social Good / Sustainable Design
Sectors:
My Location: London, United Kingdom
University / College: Central Saint Martins UAL
Course / Program Title: BA (Hons) Architecture
My name is Natalia Augustynowicz and I am a Part 1 Architecture graduate from Central Saint Martins (University of the Arts London).
Architecture should be designed for the people it serves - a belief that I have explored throughout my 3 years at university. This belief manifests itself in designing buildings which address the context of their surroundings, respond to user's behaviours and well-being, as well as listen to the voices of the community whose built environment is impacted. This belief fuels my passion for designing architecture that is inclusive, socially engaged and sustainable. Each design is approached with both care and curiosity, as I aim to create thoughtful, context-driven architecture that reflects the needs of those it serves whilst simultaneously responding creatively to real-world challenges.
Outside of university, I have actively sought opportunities for me to apply my belief in real-world contexts. I currently work as a Workshop Lead for Accelerate Studios on behalf of Open City - a charity which aims to empower communities to learn about, feel connected to, and have a role in shaping the places where they live. As part of my role, I deliver creative workshops to secondary school students across London, introducing them to the built environment and encouraging them to see themselves as active participants in shaping it.
My project reimagines Eel Pie Island’s slipway as a three-story multiuse space which continues boat repairs while introducing spaces for pigment making, painting, and assembly. Honouring its artist community whilst addressing Richmond’s mental health crisis, the proposal hosts art therapy sessions which use natural pigments made by visitors using the plants grown in the on-site garden. My proposal encourages collaboration between residents, boat-owners, artists, and visitors through its spaces and the “plant drying chandelier" which visually joins all floors together. Flowing With the River not only addresses community needs but also fosters a space for healing, collective expression and assembly.