University of South Wales, Dubai

Located near Al-Maktoum International Airport, the new campus of The University of South Wales was designed and built by KPS in collaboration with AECOM. The aim was to create a facility that would be both innovative and inspiring, so as to ignite creativity and encourage the students to challenge the boundaries of possibility. 

The client’s brief placed emphasis on the development of flexible spaces that could be adjusted to meet the student’s needs and foster a collaborative learning environment. Hence, an open plan concept with a free flowing layout can be seen throughout, with glass partitioned cabins that provide privacy yet maintain an open and airy feel. A mix of exposed ceilings and overhead light panels with decorative ceiling lights couple with seating to form the key elements of the design. A blend of carpets and wood flooring also run through the campus, with vibrant colours differentiating the various spaces.

The DNA of the USW facility remains true to its Welsh origins, and a key part of the design criteria was to create a state-of-the-art engineering workshop that simulates reality. Two notable challenges were the installation of a decommissioned Cessna airplane and a 4-ton turbine engine, that was removed from a Boeing aircraft. The campus also capitalses on the latest advancements in IT and AV technology, to create learning environments that mimic actual work environments.