Building on History: Investigating the Influence of Architectural Persistence on Liverpool’s Urban Transformation Part 2 Dissertation 2024 Ieuan Thomas University of Nottingham Nottingham | UK By redefining Aldo Rossi’s theories on the impact of primary elements and monuments in the urban realm, this thesis critically examines the catalytic effect of Liverpool’s persistent architecture on its ongoing urban transformation. By challenging the dominant narrative of architecture’s contribution to the city through its iconicity and scenography, this thesis argues how typological organisation and spatial specificity contributes to urban transformation. The Royal Albert Dock emerges as a compelling example of architectural persistence through its continued catalysation of the urban realm, defining it as a primary element. Due to its distinct concave and convex typology, the Royal Albert Dock ensures architectural persistence, whilst helping to catalyse urban transformation surrounding it. This contrasts with the Three Graces and Stanley Dock, which are monuments - symbolic relics of the history of the city. By assessing what differentiates primary elements and monuments, valuable lessons that are applicable to future architectural projects can be extracted. There must be a paradigm shift in the prioritisation of persistence and adaptability in architecture to align with the ever-changing programmatic needs of the city. This adaptability allows for architecture to persist and to continue to influence the ever-evolving urban fabric. Tutor(s) Nick Haynes