As we contemplate how our high streets must reinvent themselves in light of the rise of online and the shift toward the experiential, it is perhaps not a coincidence that we are seeing the shopping centre break free from its internalised focus and look much more urban.
Rail has long been at the heart of UK transport infrastructure and by the time the first HS2 service comes into operation it will have been over 200 years since the first public railway opened in Britain. High Speed Rail however offers the opportunity to completely rethink station design in the UK, both in terms of customer experience and urban context.
In Marc Augé’s book, ‘Non-Places – An Introduction to an Anthropology of Supermodernity’, a framework for what he describes as non-place can be found. Augé contrasts space, which is travelled through, with the idea of place which he describes as frequented space thus giving it a history and meaning.
Nick's extensive transport experience ranges across rail, retail, aviation and bridge projects at all stages, from feasibility studies and concept design to detailed design, construction information and site support for both clients and contractors. He specialises in interfacing with complex client bodies and multiple stakeholders, leading projects in a collaborative and multidisciplinary environment.
Due in part to his Anglo-Spanish heritage, Nick has a deep personal interest in the notions of place and identity which is manifest in his involvement in academia as Visiting Teaching Fellow at the University of Bath and most recently teaching design at the Oxford School of Architecture. Since 2014 Nick has run the Oxford DS6 Masters Studio exploring the future of Smart City thinking exploring projects that augment, mutate or rethink existing urban conditions. Nick has also been invited as guest critic and lecturer at universities in London, Tokyo, Seoul and New York.
As we contemplate how our high streets must reinvent themselves in light of the rise of online and the shift toward the experiential, it is perhaps not a coincidence that we are seeing the shopping centre break free from its internalised focus and look much more urban.
Rail has long been at the heart of UK transport infrastructure and by the time the first HS2 service comes into operation it will have been over 200 years since the first public railway opened in Britain. High Speed Rail however offers the opportunity to completely rethink station design in the UK, both in terms of customer experience and urban context.
In Marc Augé’s book, ‘Non-Places – An Introduction to an Anthropology of Supermodernity’, a framework for what he describes as non-place can be found. Augé contrasts space, which is travelled through, with the idea of place which he describes as frequented space thus giving it a history and meaning.
How can we help?
Please get in touch if you’d like to know more about us and how we work with our clients, consultants and colleagues.