Hana Loftus: Architecture, Regeneration, Planning, Resilience, Design, Jaywick Sands Ben Yeoh Chats

Hana Loftus is a co-founder of HAT Projects. HAT are award winning architects, planners and enablers for the built environment. Projects include: London’s Science Museum Smith Centre, transformation of Trinity Works (a disused church), Ely Museum, Jerwood gallery and Jaywick Sands’ Sunspot. As well as practising planning and design, she writes on the subject and plays a great fiddle and violin.

Transcript and Video here: https://www.thendobetter.com/arts/2024/1/10/hana-loftus-architecture-regeneration-planning-resilience-design-podcast

The discussion is around the challenges and opportunities in architecture and urban planning. The topics range from finding systemic housing solutions for poverty-stricken communities in Alabama, exploring the importance of practical real-world experiences for architecture students, 

"I think as a young architect, firstly learning how a building is actually put together; nailing bits of wood together, wiring a house, plumbing a house, pouring foundations, all of that practical stuff is critical... And anybody can do that. Anybody can get tools and learn how to build something."

and discussing the Sunspot project that addresses affordable business units in Jaywick Sands, a poor area of east England. Hana talks about the lifespan and adaptability of buildings. She highlights the critical aspect of maintaining quality in construction and the risks in cost-cutting, referencing the Grenfell tragedy.

We discuss the political challenges of the Green Belt policy, proposing a 'finger model' for development, and the importance of exploring rural domains. Hana emphasises acquiring practical experience and making a concrete impact in the world.

Transcript and summary bullet points below.


Building Houses and Rural Studio Experience


Understanding the Realities of Rural Alabama


The Impact of Building with Your Own Hands


Working with the Community: The Story of Miss Phillips


The Importance of the Front Porch in Southern Homes


Reflections on Building Experience


Transition from Alabama to East of England: Jaywick Sands


Understanding the History and Challenges of Jaywick Sands


The Regeneration Strategy for Jaywick Sands


The Complexities of Place-Based Regeneration


The Role of Consultation in Community Development


The Sunspot Project: A Case Study in Localised Economic Stimulation


Reflections on the Success of the Sunspot Project


The Balance Between Planning and Unplanning in Community Development. The role of beauty.


Nationwide Economic and Climate Perspective


Local Agency and Development Opposition, Challenges in the Planning System


Inequality and Climate Resilience 


Design Codes and Pattern Books: A Debate


The Aesthetics of Development and Cultural Relevance


The Lifespan of Buildings: 


The Future of Building Design and Sustainability


The Role of Transport in Sustainable Planning


The Impact of Construction Industry Structure


Rethinking Greenbelt Policy for Sustainable Development


Current and Future Projects: A Glimpse


Life Advice: Making a Mark in the World