Green Gown Awards 2019 - University of Worcester - Highly Commended

Since its beginning, the University of Worcester has lived its motto: “inspired for life”, expressed through a culture of friendliness, creativity, effectiveness and inclusion. We have deliberately chosen to develop our estate differently, creating places that are conducive to cooperation and success. The proactive involvement of our students and staff and the accessibility of our facilities have an impact on the world outside the university. We strive to be an exemplar of a community-engaged university. 

The Art House has brought to life one of Worcester's most iconic buildings making it accessible, efficient and improving the well-being of its users. Constructed in 1939 as the first car showroom for Lord Austin of Austin Motors, the north facing rooflights makes it a most suitable venue for its new purposes providing a magnificent facility for art and design students and community creative projects. It is a centre for children’s creative camps as well as a magnificent space for the University’s many art and illustration students. 

Top 3 learnings 

• Include students, staff, governors and the local community in developing your vision.  
• Little by way of innovation occurs in isolation. Collaboration is key. 
• Inspiration lets people feel motivated to balance economic efficiency, social equity and environmental accountability.