Learning From Blackpool Part 2 Project 2020 Declan Clarke University of Nottingham | UK ‘Learning From Blackpool’ is an investigation of the enduring cultural and architectural identity of the British seaside resort. Inspired by observations made in ‘Learning From Las Vegas’, the thesis curated a catalogue of archetypical elements across a selection of seaside resorts, comparatively assessing their significance through permanence, impermanence and vitality. Seaside towns are in dire need of renewed vitality, now more than ever. The thesis directs itself towards Blackpool, a town in social, cultural and architectural decline. Pivotally, finding inspiration in Blackpool’s lost ‘Culture House’ – the Alhambra Palace. The significance of this building is reinterpreted and translated, in both programme and built form, a physical manifestation of a new agenda and movement towards a renewed architectural continuity of Blackpool. The thesis reimagines Blackpool’s promenade through a series of ‘Cultural Houses’ transforming the town, initially through temporary cultural spaces, progressively through three important archetypical sites.With greater focus upon the reuse and adaptation of the Palatine building, an existing 1970s Pop-Art building, connecting the North Pier and former Central Railway Station, proposed as exhibition spaces and gardens. Together the new interventions breathe new life into a tired resort, with the catalyst at the centre - a new Culture House for Blackpool. Declan Clarke Tutor(s) Tim Collett Chloe Lockhart