Engineering the Future Prize 2017

The prize was open to any student studying on Northumbria University’s Level 7 Conceptual Design Analysis module. A range of full time students on the Architectural Engineering MEng (Hons) and part time students on the Building Services Engineering MEng (Hons) courses took part, creating designs for a new museum in Oman which would showcase the history of the country. The brief required a specific focus on displaying artefacts and exhibits for the period of Renaissance since the 1970s, which has seen remarkable economic, technological and political advances as well as social change. In addition to being a ‘must see’ attraction, the brief specified that the museum should instil in young Omanis a sense of belonging and pride in their country and its achievements.

A large number of students took part this year and their submissions were considered by our Chairman, Peter Rolton. Peter decided to award Nathan Cooper first place, Abbie Naisbitt second and Alex Martin third.

Impressed by the designs, Peter said:

“All applicants worked hard and submitted some great efforts this year. The top three students all delivered well presented, solid pieces of work which overall featured strong analysis and presented a variety of viable concepts and solutions.”

Nathan stood out as the winner, as Peter was impressed with the originality of his design. Strong analysis was used well to illustrate how Nathan’s idea of constructing the fabric of the building like a gigantic thermos flask would provide superior thermal performance. As the winner of the Engineering the Future Prize, Nathan has been awarded £1,500 from Rolton Group.

Jess Tindall, Programme Leader and Senior Lecturer at Northumbria University said:

“The Architectural Engineering/Building Services Engineering team at Northumbria University are very grateful to Peter Rolton and Rolton Group for sponsoring this prize designed to inspire our students and to encourage innovative engineering solutions whilst ensuring a high level of commercial and societal awareness. The standard of entry was strong again this year with a clear demonstration of innovative thinking highly evident in the winning entry. A new and very demanding challenge faced the students and we are proud of the way that they rose to the occasion. For the three shortlisted students, the detailed written feedback provided by Peter was very valuable and added an extra perspective to their studies. We are grateful for Rolton Group’s contribution to the Northumbria programmes and to the next generation of Building Services Engineers.”