CSM PhD student designs Brick Development Association Brick Awards
- Written byInternal Communications
- Published date 10 June 2021
CSM PhD student Maria Gasparian was recently invited to design the trophies for the annual Brick Development Association (BDA) Brick Awards. We caught up with her to discuss how the project relates to her wider practice and research.
What are the annual Brick Awards?
The annual Brick Development Association (BDA) Brick Awards celebrate the best British and international architectural projects in brick. The awards ceremony is held in November.
How did you come to design the Brick Awards trophies?
I was invited by the BDA to design the trophy in 2019 following my involvement with the organisation, in connection with my PhD.
I have engaged with the BDA, following my research into design, craft making and manufacture of architectural ceramics and bespoke bricks. I have shared the findings from my research at the BDA’s “Brick Works” event at the University of Cambridge, discussing creative opportunities in brick manufacturing and the importance of knowledge exchange between architects, ceramic artists and manufacturers.
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your design and the materials you have used?
Made out of extruded brick clay, the monolith trophy is designed to express durability and longevity; qualities associated with the material. While the size of the trophy corresponds to brick dimensions, the geometry of the piece was based on the idea that brick, being modular, can create various arrangements and can be read both on a micro and macro scale.
An element of surprise built into the design is that the base of the trophy represents a house: a structure made of bricks.
How does this project relate to your PhD?
The creation of the trophy was made possible through my ceramic practice and knowledge of industrial manufacturing researched during my PhD. My research explores innovative hybrid methods of manufacturing that combine ceramic craft, digital and industrial processes.
The trophy is being manufactured in collaboration with Forterra, one of the UK’s largest brick manufacturers. While industrial clay extruders are used to form the pieces, I apply hand-craft elements and glazing that my research has focussed on.
