Kingston University unveils major redevelopment at its Penrhyn Road campus

Kingston University has officially unveiled the transformation of the ground floor of its Main Building at Penrhyn Road – delivering a significantly improved campus experience for students, staff and visitors. The project has revitalised over 4,000m² of internal space and marks a major milestone in the University’s commitment to delivering world-class education in the heart of South West London.

Enhanced student experience

The £23m transformation provides state-of-the-art learning and social spaces, including new Future Skills studios where students will be supported to develop the human-centric skills most valued by employers as part of the University’s sector-leading Future Skills programme.

Industry partners will engage with students in a new Employer Connect space, while the ground floor now features a Career Centre at the heart of the campus. The facilities have been designed to support students’ career confidence and skills development.

The revitalised building also includes Kingston Students’ Union spaces featuring a student lounge, event area and communal kitchen designed for student use. Together with the Collaboration Space completed in 2024 these foster a sense of community and provide opportunities for students to meet, relax and participate in University life.

The University worked with BMJ Architects and Neilcott Construction on the project, completed in two phases between summer 2023 and summer 2025.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Steven Spier said the transformation of the ground floor marks a significant step in the University’s commitment to enhancing the student experience – in keeping with the RIBA Stirling Prize-winning Town House adjacent to the main building. “This newly redeveloped space offers a dynamic and flexible environment where students can meet, collaborate and feel a stronger sense of belonging,” he said. “It reflects Kingston University's vision to invest in vibrant, inclusive spaces across our estate that encourage our students to stay on campus outside of their lectures and make their own – as well as supporting their Future Skills development and learning experience."

Hamza Haroon, President of Kingston Students’ Union, also shared his excitement. “This new student-centric space has quickly become a hub for networking, collaboration and celebration. It provides a welcoming social area, space to host events and a fully equipped kitchen for students to use. Our newly upgraded Students’ Union offices are also here, a place we are proud to call home."

Improved accessibility and environmental sustainability

The ground floor also boasts a striking new entrance and atrium on Penrhyn Road, designed to create a more prominent and inviting gateway to the University. Accessibility has been significantly improved with a new lift near the main reception and the campus’s first Changing Places toilet. Additional facilities include baby change and feed rooms, counselling spaces and first aid rooms ensuring the campus is welcoming to all. 

The project also reflects Kingston University’s environmental sustainability values. Upgrades include insulated walls, double glazing and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems. Landscaping enhancements also promote wellbeing and green space.

Connor Wilson, Director of Estates and Sustainability, said the redevelopment marked a significant milestone in the University’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its estate. “This project exemplifies our dedication to creating modern, accessible and sustainable spaces that not only support the needs of our students and staff but also serve as a welcoming resource for engaging with business partners. We are proud to deliver an environment that reflects our values and supports inclusive, forward-thinking education.”

Celebrating the opening

A launch event held on November 6th, brought together industry and community leaders, local dignitaries and University staff and students to celebrate the unveiling of a modern, sustainable and inclusive environment for the whole University community. 

The Royal Borough of Kingston’s Deputy Mayor Councillor Sue Ansari cut the ribbon for the opening alongside Professor Steven Spier and Hamza Haroon. 

During the event, guests took part in guided tours, student showcases and exhibitions by the Development Alumni Relations and Engagement (DARE) team, the University’s Knowledge Exchange and Research Institutes and Student Development and Graduate Success team – highlighting the collaborative spirit that defines Kingston University’s approach to education and innovation. 

There were also opportunities to engage in an immersive experience where King Athelstan was brought to life by academics through virtual reality – part of the University’s link up with Kingston Council’s Kingston 2025 cultural programme – meet some of the University’s robots and have a five-minute portrait drawn by illustration students. 

• Watch a walkthrough video of the ground floor redevelopment by clicking this link.