RSAW Design Week returns this autumn with an exciting programme of events and activities. This year we will be exploring some of the 2024 Welsh Architecture Award winning buildings. There will be a chance to join building tours and hear from the architects and clients through online interviews and in person talks.
The RSAW Design Week is an opportunity to celebrate architecture and design in locations across Wales and network with new and old colleagues. To round up the week, we will be holding the RSAW Student Award ceremony in Spark, Cardiff University’s new social science research park and one of this year’s award-winning buildings.
The RSAW Practice Exhibition will displayed in Spark and we welcome members and non-members to join us for our celebrations.
LPN Competition
Small shifts, big future: Designing Cardiff for tomorrow
RSAW’s newly formed Large Practice Network (LPN) are hosting a competition inviting each practice in the LPN to submit an entry, where they have been tasked to propose innovative small-scale interventions that can have a significant and positive impact on Cardiff and its inhabitants.
The proposal should align with the core values of the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act, with a focus on social equity, sustainability and long-term resilience.
The submission will be posted on the RSAW Instagram channel (@the_rsaw) and displayed in a venue and judged during Design Week.
Programme for the week
Monday 7 October | Dydd Llun 7 Hydref
Edge House interview (YouTube)
Dan Benham and Kristian Hyde will delve into the Edge House by Hyde + Hyde, a project celebrated for its profound connection to its surroundings.
This discussion will journey through the decade-long evolution from concept to completion, reflecting on the emotional resonance embedded in its design and the meticulous craftsmanship of its bespoke details. The unique demands of its location and the pursuit of unparalleled quality presented numerous challenges, which were embraced as opportunities to elevate the project to its award-winning status.
Tuesday 8 October | Dydd Mawrth 8 Hydref
Hay Castle tour and talk, Hay Castle, Oxford Road, Hay-on-Wye, HR3 5DG
Join us on Tuesday 8 October for a tour of Hay Castle, one of the great medieval defence structures still standing. The castle is located in Hay-on-Wye on the border of England and Wales and was built in the late 12th century.
MICA Architects recently carried out a conservation-led renovation and repair of the important historic building, which included contemporary interventions to bring the castle back to life and for public benefit.
The success of the work carried out by MICA Architects led to the project winning an RSAW Welsh Architecture Award 2024, RSAW Conservation Award 2024, and RSAW Building of the Year 2024.
Wednesday 9 October | Dydd Mercher 9 Hydref
Plas Hendy interview (YouTube)
Gavin Traylor discusses the award-winning Plas Hendy Stable Block with Claire Priest and Ben Crawley from Studio Brassica. The project has been recognised for rescuing and restoring a formerly crumbing arts and crafts Grade II listed stable block. Clever re-use and simple materials used in a spirited and playful way make the old feel very comfortable with the new, layering the past with the present.
Discussion will cover the journey of the project along with challenges that were faced along the way.
Design Circle’s annual board games evening, Bigmoose Coffee, 4-5 Frederick St, Cardiff CF10 2DB
This casual networking event promises an evening of fun, laughter, and friendly competition with a variety of board games provided by Rules of Play' (instead of Chance Encounters).
For a modest fee, the entry ticket includes drinks, snacks, and the opportunity to give back to our community. All proceeds from ticket sales will go directly to support the bigmoose charity, making this not just a night of enjoyment but also a chance to make a positive impact.
Thursday 10 October | Dydd Iau 10 Hydref
Plas Glyn Y Weddw: Tour and Talk, Plas Glyn y Weddw Cafe, Llanbedrog, Pwllheli LL53 7TT
Located in the idyllic setting of Llanbedrog, the Café at Oriel Plas Glyn-y-Weddw is a shell inspired intervention to the oldest art gallery in Wales creating an interesting transition between new and old.
The scheme by Mark Wray Architects and sculptor Matthew Sanderson has recently been awarded with the RSAW Welsh Architecture Client of the Year Award and shortlisted for The Stephen Lawrence Prize 2024.
Join us for a tour of the existing Grade II* listed art gallery and new café as we discuss the design process and creative approach with the designers.
Friday 11 October | Dydd Gwener 11 Hydref
Student awards ceremony and chartered practice exhibition, Sparc|Spark, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cardiff CF24 4HQ
Join us to celebrate the winners of the RSAW Student Awards 2024 from the Welsh School of Architecture and the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. We will also be displaying the chartered practice exhibition and welcome students and built environment professionals to join us for pizzas and drinks to celebrate.
How to book
Reservation required for all events, email RSAW at rsaw@riba.org to find out more or book your place via the links in the event titles.
