A PROJECT in Watchet to get local teenagers to design and build their own common room got underway with a successful architect-led design workshop.
Last Thursday saw 25 local teenagers come together to design a structure for the Splash Point Pleasure Ground in Watchet.
Guiding them were award-winning architect Kate Darby, national timber expert Charley Brentnall and local volunteer group the Watchet Community Makers, with Georgie Grant and Sally Lowndes from the Onion Collective as facilitators.
The workshop, funded by the Youth Social Action Fund and the Courage Family Fund, took place in Watchet’s Phoenix Centre.
After working together to establish what was wanted and needed for local teenagers, and how these ideas might translate to the site, the teenagers were split into four groups and asked to draw, then make 3D models of their ideas using balsa wood.
They then voted on their favourite structures and the key aspects of each which should be incorporated into the final design.
Onion Collective project officer, Sally Lowndes said: “This project came about because local teenagers came to us to ask for help identifying a space they could use for socialising.
“We’re thrilled that so many came to the design workshop. It just shows what an amazing community we have here in Watchet.
“The level of focus and natural design talent the teenagers brought to the table was also hugely impressive. We’re all really excited to watch this project progress.”