Students are immersing themselves in the rich history of the oldest house in Portsmouth to help design a plan for its future.
Nearly 50 students from the University of Portsmouth's Interior Architecture and Design Master's have been visiting Wymering Manor as part of their course.
Wymering Manor, Cosham, is featured in the 1086 Domesday Book. The house that now stands on the site was built in 1581 by Eleanor Brunning. It is a Grade II listed building and has previously been used as a vicarage, a monastery and a youth hostel.
But its future is uncertain as the building needs major structural work and restoration.
These students are paving the way for a future where historical landmarks are not just preserved but become integral parts of the communities they serve. I'm looking forward to seeing their ideas for reshaping the future of the house.
Belinda Mitchell, Senior Lecturer in interior design
Belinda Mitchell, Senior Lecturer in interior design at the University's School of Architecture, said: "The students have been "listening" to the manor and playing it as if it's a musical instrument, which is a unique approach to architectural exploration.
"In architectural practice you tend to go to a site and then go back to the office and think remotely. We're collaborating with Wymering Manor Trust and the local community, to look at the building as more than just a structure.
"The students are from Iran, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Europe and Malaysia, and they're working hard to envision a space that engages with the local community, and the wider communities that surround it.
"We want the local people to be part of the future of this historic building."
During the students' visits to Wymering House, they have surveyed the site, sometimes working blindfolded, so they can form a sensory connection with the building. They have also used stones and sticks to "feel" the pulse of the manor - as if it's a living, breathing entity.
Now they're tasked with rethinking the future of the house and will present design proposals to the trustees.
Students outside the historic building
Belinda added: "This group of international students bring expertise from a variety of different cultures and backgrounds, which means they'll be able to provide comparison with other cultural heritage sites.
"These students are paving the way for a future where historical landmarks are not just preserved but become integral parts of the communities they serve. I'm looking forward to seeing their ideas for reshaping the future of the house."
The manor is currently being used for plays, events, meetings, education and training, a well being centre for local groups and also a venue for ghost hunting - as it has been regularly dubbed Hampshire's most haunted location.
The student project is one part of the Wymering Manor Trust, which has been set up to restore, convert and build a sustainable future for the house.
Deborah Higginbotham chair of the Wymering Manor Trustees said: "It is great to see the Manor being used for such a unique approach to architecture. Seeing the house buzzing with students has been welcomed by all the Trustees and as a Board we look forward to seeing, or listening to, the final result.
"The Trust is proud of our relationship with the University of Portsmouth and their architectural students and look forward to further developing and growing our association with them."
The final act of this project will be an orchestrated finale, where the students will return to the house to 'play' reformed domestic objects as though musical instruments within the house.
