Peggy approached the project in a very measured way and responded to each stage of the design development process in an intuitive manner, rather than being overly analytical. Her perceptions of the country, the city and the site led her to focus on the idea of performance as a journey through the building rather than merely an activity taking place in a designated theatre space.
The strong influence of water as design dynamic is displayed in her use of form and greatly affects the building evelope and its positioning on the site. She has tried to explore the quality of light that might be achieved in the internal spaces using a series of models and sketches: she has an intimate understanding of how every space is internally perceived at various times of the day.
What was interesting to me as a tutor was Peggy’s total immersion in the design process and how her commitment spread to fellow students, influencing their approach not just to this specific project but to design in general. Peggy was at the forefront of the class at every stage of the scheme competition and presented herself very well to the judging panel in Dublin; she also later gave a presentation to the school on her work. Peggy has grown in confidence and maturity this year and I hope that her totally involved approach to design will be rewarded by recognition in the RIBA awards.