Education
UCA Epsom
Transforming UCA's Wells Building: A Modern, Versatile Space for Fashion Education
3 Floors
28 Week Programme
21,000 Sq Ft
The Challenge
The primary challenge was refurbishing the aging Wells Building to create a modern, versatile space that met UCA’s evolving aesthetic and functional needs for their fashion students.
The Solution
The solution involved extensive structural improvements and a neutral, textured design to create a dynamic environment that highlights and supports student creativity and learning.
The Result
The result is a vibrant, functional space that successfully expands UCA’s capacity while fostering an inspiring environment for fashion education.
The Wells Building, just a short walk from UCA’s main campus in Epsom, was acquired to provide much-needed extra space. Now dedicated to fashion students, it helps alleviate the pressure on the main campus while offering a focused environment for creativity and learning.
Transformation and design
The refurbishment has transformed the Wells Building into a dynamic, student-centered space. The neutral design creates the perfect backdrop for showcasing student work, with multifunctional classrooms, breakout areas, and a stepped seating area for both formal and informal teaching.
Flexible and Supportive
A welcoming coffee space doubles as a social hub, while a small retail area allows students to display and sell their work. The top floor features a dedicated catwalk space for fashion shows, and a sensory room provides a calm, supportive environment for those who need it. Structural improvements, including new windows, air conditioning, and lighting, ensure the building meets modern standards and offers a comfortable space for all.
External Branding
To clearly mark UCA’s presence and promote student work, the building features updated signage and visual elements that align with its new, contemporary look. The transformation of the Wells Building has created a modern, versatile space that enhances both learning and creativity, providing an inspiring environment for fashion students to thrive.
