Students Help Reimagine Filwood Broadway High Street

Two inspiring design days led by the architectural firm RCKA, 3E and Momentum Structural Engineers have sparked creativity and fresh ideas from local students, contributing to the exciting redevelopment of Filwood Broadway in Knowle West. The first session took place at Merchant’s Academy, followed by a second day at Bedminster Down High School. These sessions brought together students to help RCKA reimagine the iconic high street, which is set for a major transformation.

As part of an ambitious project commissioned by the Bristol City council, RCKA, along with 3E and Momentum Structural Engineering will revamp Filwood Broadway, creating a new high street, redeveloping the park area, and adding modern flats for residents. A key focus of the project is the revitalisation of shop fronts, and the students were tasked with designing these as part of their hands-on involvement. 

First the students were given a chance to find out more about roles in property redevelopment through a speed-networking session with two architects, a structural engineer and a mechanical engineer. They had the opportunity to learn about the different pathways into each role, and to ask questions to each of the volunteers. This session helped students to unpick which kinds of skills were suited to each role, and which subjects might lead to each of these jobs.  

Each group was then given a brief to design the front and interior of a specific type of shop, café, or restaurant, such as a bakery or a local coffeehouse. With guidance from the experts, they brought their visions to life, creating everything from eye-catching facades to functional, stylish interiors. Students were also asked to consider how they might engage the local community, and how they planned to make the spaces more sustainable. 

Finally every group was asked to present their projects back to the team of experts, they were asked to prove why their project should be the winning design, through meeting a list of criteria set by the experts at the beginning of the project. The designs were so good that multiple projects and students ended up winning prizes for their contributions. 

The final results were nothing short of impressive and when lined up, you could really see the high street coming to life. The students’ designs could even feed into the architects’ planning, helping shape the future of Filwood Broadway. This collaboration not only gave students an opportunity to apply their creativity and teamworking skills, but also played a vital role in shaping the area’s future development. 

The high level of engagement and innovative ideas from the students demonstrates the power of community-driven design and reinforces the importance of involving local voices in the redevelopment process. RCKA’s work, alongside the contributions from the students, promises a bright future for Filwood Broadway and its residents.