Crewe Train Museum: The Junction Point
At the core of my architectural philosophy is a dedication to community-centric design, driven by a passion for crafting inclusive environments that foster meaningful connections—uniting people, embedding them within their place, and honouring local heritage. This passion is intrinsically linked with a keen interest in sustainable design, recognising the significance of socially enriching and environmentally responsible solutions. My ambition is to continuously deepen this knowledge, designing future projects that strengthen community bonds, preserve cultural memories, and innovatively address critical environmental and climate issues.
This approach is embodied in my project in Crewe, a town renowned for its railway heritage. This vibrant, child-friendly train museum responds to the evolving needs of its community and addresses site fragmentation. The design prioritises user experience, fosters connection, and champions sustainable materials. Key features include a miniature railway weaving through its interior, a new platform providing seamless access to Crewe Train Station, an integrated urban promenade, and an elevated indoor ramp offering panoramic views of carriage displays. Functioning as a transport hub, the museum bridges Crewe’s rich railway history with its diverse communities and national travellers. The significant mesh panel facade along the inclusive indoor ramp further enhances the visitor’s journey by fostering a strong visual and physical connection between the interior and the surrounding environment. Materially, the project embraces sustainability by utilising recycled steel from the site and local resources, reclaimed brick slips, and Corten steel panels, strategically lowering embodied carbon and demonstrating innovative, low-impact solutions to minimise its ecological footprint.
