Architectural filmmaker dedicated to communicating the architectural process
Founder, Architecture.Film. Part 1: 2011, Part 2: 2015
‘I genuinely believe in the power of film, and how it can be utilised to benefit the profession,’ says Dion Barrett, who recently transitioned to full-time filmmaking four years after qualifying as an architect.
Barrett studied at Liverpool John Moores University and worked as an architect at Associated Architects in Birmingham and at Fabric in Solihull. His journey into film began when he started documenting his own architectural projects as well as events at the Birmingham Architecture Association. He began creating work for other practices and set up Architecture.Film, which he describes as a studio to uncover the stories behind the built environment.
He sees filmmaking as an extension of architectural practice, and a way of communicating the complex process of delivering buildings rather than just documenting the end result. His aim is not just to concentrate on aesthetics but to educate too by creating ‘something both beautiful and informative’.
‘I’m passionate about using my skill set as a filmmaker and architect to promote innovation, highlight great buildings and advocate for the profession to other professionals and the public,’ he says.
He has now produced more than 100 architectural films, ranging from documenting live events to project showcases, educational films and documentaries. These include Village Stories for Jestico + Whiles. This post-occupancy evaluation of Greenwich Millennium Village encouraged residents to speak for themselves, and won last year’s inaugural AJ100 Communication Initiative of the Year award.
Meanwhile, a series of research-focused films with We Made That included themes such as the intensification of industrial land and the importance of cultural spaces in the cities. The 30-minute educational film Zero Carbon House explored the importance of sustainable design.
Judges commended how Barrett was using his architectural knowledge to communicate architecture – and the value that architects can bring – to a broader audience.
‘To be able to use what you learn about architecture to tell complex stories is really important,’ said Fiona Scott, adding that this was quite difficult to do well.
Barrett’s referee, Anna Parker of Intervention Architects, praised his commitment to inspiring others, whether by providing paid work experience opportunities to architectural students from non-traditional backgrounds, or as a visiting lecturer at the University of Wolverhampton.
What piece of architecture or placemaking do you most admire and why?
The Barbican has always held a special place close to my heart. It’s actually where I proposed to my wife. Impressive on every scale, it’s a filmmaker’s dream, blending massive concrete forms with intricate details, an interplay of light, shadow and texture. It perplexes me how something so brutal can feel so welcoming. The Barbican is a bold urban sanctuary. The bustling waterside terrace speaks to its allure. Two thousand homes arranged around schools, a church, library, a lake, a conservatory and an entire arts centre. Once you’ve actually figured out how to navigate the labyrinth, is this utopia?