Mobile residence for writers to meander the border of England’s former Roman Empire

Resembling a small factory, this mobile translucent structure will travel along Hadrian's Wall in northern England and provide temporary accommodation to writers.

With its chimney stack and operable shutters, the steel and polycarbonate structure references the industrial architecture of the region. Designed by architects Matthew Butcher, Kieran Wardle and Owain Williams, the mobile house will travel to several archaeological locations that once marked the border of the Roman empire.Called ‘The Mansio’, the house will function as a temporary residence for writers, as well as a venue for different events during a six-month-long journey that forms part of the Hexham Book Festival and Arts&Heritage. The project was conceived as an exploration of concepts of borders, with a specific reference to the ancient Roman empire.

“The rich history of Hadrian’s Wall and its peoples provide a creative foundation for the authors involved in The Mansio project, writing new responses to the ever-present issue of borders and colonisation and the unique history of this ancient Roman landscape,” said director of Hexham Book Festival Susie Troup.

The Mansio began its journey in South Shields earlier this month, and will continue to travel along Hadrian’s Wall. During the next few months it will visit the Roman forts of Arbeia, Birdoswald, Senhouse and Carlisle Castle.