Radical Groundings: Winterschool 2026 Academy of Architecture AMS

The Winterschool was led by POoR Collective, a London-based social enterprise and architectural practice represented by Ben Spry and Larry Botchway, who were invited as Artists in Residence. POoR Collective’s work focuses on using participatory design to address social and spatial inequalities.

They encouraged students to engage critically and creatively with place, community and the social dimensions of design. Students worked on this year’s assignments, which were located across five assisted living sites in Amsterdam, four of which are managed by HVO Querido and one by Straatalliantie.

As a guest teacher, I had the opportunity to work with a diverse group of students - from Architecture, Urbanism and Landscape Architecture programs. Together, we focused our efforts on the Martien Schaaperhuis, a shelter for homeless individuals on Ijburg. Through research into the experiences and needs of the shelter’s residents, the students developed new design proposals and insights, which they presented in a collective exhibition attended by one of the Martien Schaaperhuis’ clients.

It was a valuable project that combined design research, participatory approaches and a focus on social impact. With great help of tutors Anna Torres, Heather Stimpson and Michiel Huijben, who have guided the students through their process during this eight-day intensive course.

Thanks POoR Collective and Academie van Bouwkunst Amsterdam for this wonderful collaboration and experience.