The Ripple Effect

Combining local knowledge and skills with academic resources and technology, the structure uses a second-hand flat-pack shipping container to create a versatile community space. It was conceived and designed with the Nelson community during a series of hands-on workshops in Spring 2023, pre-fabricated at the University of Central Lancashire with Master of Architecture students, and installed in Lomeshaye Park with community members in April 2024. The design was developed with a local steering group through on-site drawing, modelmaking, and 1:1 participatory prototyping. These workshops explored not only spatial and structural ideas, but also how active participation could shape design decisions in response to both constraints and aspirations. This co-production approach continued during fabrication, with community members visiting UCLan to test and help build the space. The project offers a place to trial new forms of activity and engagement, and explores the potential of the park and adjacent canal as a key amenity through artist- and resident-led workshops and events. Using digital fabrication, off-the-shelf parts and a simple palette of affordable materials, the structure is designed to be relocated, adapted or replicated elsewhere in Nelson or beyond.