In John Summerson’s essay, An Interpretation of the Gothic (1946) he posits that the gothic cathedral can be read as a multiplication and accumulation of aedicules - little houses. Their ambiguity of scale and character - and implicit relationship with play - is exemplified in the works of the Sienese masters, which will form a twin cornerstone to the studio. We also celebrate Henri Bergson’s concept of ‘duration’, which he called ‘the persistence of the past in the present’, and will advocate for the retention, celebration and reinvigoration of existing structures in this way.

In an era of increasing geo-political uncertainty – and climate emergency - there is a retreat within the comfort of borders; globalism’s golden age is waning. In the era of the polycrisis, nations are dealing with multiple and compounding issues. In this context, energy, material and food sovereignty are urgent governmental priorities.

A new agenda to counter the status quo of the building industry is required. Perhaps this can begin with an aedicule, with one little house.