Alexander Bell- BA (Hons) Interior Design
The Underbank
Disadvantaged students in the UK are on average 18.1 months behind the rest of the class in academic achievement by the age of 16. The Underbank aims to improve the academic attainment and social outcomes of disadvantaged students across Stockport and Greater Manchester.
Acting as a ‘halfway point’ between the classroom and home, students engage with learning materials collaboratively, extending learning time beyond the school day.The space also acts as a social hub, encouraging students to build meaningful connections and a balance between education and recreation.
In addition, The Underbank intends to educate parents, teachers and public sector professionals about the challenges faced by the disadvantaged youth, providing substantive and lasting resolutions.
The design of The Underbank uses vertical continuity, exposed building structure and transparent partitions to realise a connected and supportive atmosphere in the space. With the site’s location in Stockport Town Centre, the concept draws on the recognisable architectural forms of the surrounding area, bringing the arches from the brick viaduct and the repeating patterns of the historic Market Hall into the design. A considered material palette establishes both calm, focused study environments and more dynamic, socially engaging areas.
