A retreat for poets: accolades to a project by a young Academy graduate

Daniel Edward Miles Brigginshaw, who recently graduated from USI Academy of Architecture, has won the international competition Pavilosta Poet Hut. The competition called on designers to submit proposals for a writer’s community in the well-known Latvian town overlooking the Baltic Sea. 

84 young architects from all over the world, challenged each other by developing innovative ideas for the construction of a small writers retreat, consisting of accommodation of various sizes, a multifunctional space for exhibitions and events, a common kitchen and dining room, and outdoors meditation spaces. In line with the location, participants were asked to consider strong connections with nature, the use of sustainable materials, and simple, cost-effective methods of construction.

With his project "A garden within a garden" the young architect from USI won first prize - as the jury reports on the project website https://poethuts.beebreeders.com/ - for his references to traditional Baltic architecture, the use of local materials, the concept of the central courtyard capable of providing private and shared spaces under the same roof.

In the words of the winner: Entering international competitions and challenge other young graduates from universities all over the world can be a great way of testing yourself and your knowledge. It is a great boost to see that what you have learnt from a University in Ticino can successfully compete against students and professionals from Europe, the United States, Russia, India, China, Chile and Japan. It is precisely the international imprint and the rich variety of Professors who are teaching at the Academy of Mendrisio that makes the student’s experience so unique and avant-garde, preparing us for a global stage.