Metalworks School

Monmouth is a historic town located in Monmouthshire, Wales. The town’s historic buildings and streetscapes contribute to the unique character of the place. The town has a tradition of metalworking and blacksmithing that dates back many centuries. During the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries, Monmouth, and the surrounding area experienced significant industrial growth, including iron and metal industries. The presence of the Forest of Dean, which is rich in coal and iron ore, provided the necessary resources for blacksmithing and metalworking activities.

. The proximity of Monmouth to these natural resources contributed to the development of a thriving blacksmithing industry in the region. Their skills were in demand locally and in the wider region. In addition to its historical significance, blacksmithing also contributes to the cultural fabric of Monmouth. Due to the scale of my site, I have planned to create a college that caters to metalworking, which splits into three faculties metalsmiths, blacksmiths, and jewellers. By introducing a range of courses this introduces a range of skills and encourages more students into the town which can help with the socio-economic growth.

The school is based on the Hereford College of Arts. My project aims to preserve and integrate the art of blacksmithing and metalworking into the town and endure the industrial decline of the craft of traditional blacksmithing preserving the heritage and skills of this ancient trade. Offering workshops and demonstrations to showcase the artistry and techniques of blacksmithing. The art would also be displayed in the exhibition gallery and in the shops. The Metals Building. It is also the main “Hub” of the college because it is where the post office site connects with the slaughterhouses which was a design challenge. It facilitates the metal workshop, computer study space, reception, communal staircase/seating and gallery space with views across the river and the site. The slaughterhouse site has been converted into a blacksmithing workshop. Creating space for all three years of the blacksmithing course and the slaughter space below the Market Hall is a gallery exhibition space. The Market Hall is a space for the public where they can be exposed to the different crafts being taught in the college. The works are showcased on the shop floor and in the exhibition space below in the slaughterhouses.

The beacon allows the public to see the town of Monmouth from a different perspective where they can see the historical architectural buildings and the implementation of my scheme. The beacon design echoes the historical past of the Market Hall which was burnt in a fire. This building also accommodates flexible and adaptable workshops as well as the lecture hall.