UCLan graduate has grand designs for Catterall nursery

James Swarbrick and his partner Helen welcomed Oliver into the world last year while James was studying for a degree in architectural technology at UCLan.

The 26-year-old, who works as an architectural technician for Collinson plc, embarked upon a part-time degree in order to balance his day job and new role as a dad with his studies.

But when the couple were looking for a nursery for Oliver, James found none of the ones he visited were what he considered architecturally suitable.

And this inspired him to draw up plans for a new environmentally-friendly structure that could meet his needs – so he set about designing it!

His dream is to see the nursery built in Catterall, his home village, designed to the German ‘Passivhaus’ standards, an approach which creates low energy buildings.

The building’s appearance would reflect the skyline of the nearby Bleasdale Fells, while mirroring the look and feel of the local environment, allowing plenty of natural light and ventilation.

James said: “Lots of houses are being built near where I live and so I think eventually we will need something like this in Catterall for families, as more move into the area.

“Becoming a dad changed my life and gave me a new perspective.

“It’s great that the university has enabled me to study in such a flexible way.”

James’ designs were showcased in June as part of the Lancashire Arts Festival Degree Show.