I recently had the priviledge of being given a guided tour around the Roundhouse – which makes up part of Derby College – by the project’s principle architect.

I wanted to be an architect when I was at school, but that dream had to change rapidly because it turns out that I wasn’t THAT great at maths and science. But I still retain an interest in all things design and architectural, so this trip was highly anticipated!

In the words of the architects practice:

Built in 1839 as railway works, the site boasts the world’s oldest roundhouse. After 20 years of dereliction, the site has been rescued by Derby College to become a vocational college campus.

Completed at a cost of £32.5m the scheme was a traditional contract completed on time and within budget.

From a feasibility study commissioned in 2003, the architects have seen the project from inception through to completion. Working with the Grade II* Listed buildings has been a very challenging yet rewarding process.

Two new buildings have been added to the site, the freestanding Stephenson building and the Kirtley building which connects the two ranges of Listed structures.

The beauty of this project was that the building was treated with respect, and a very innovate solution came out in the problem-solving process.

For the students who study here, it must truely be an inspirational work area. Even as I was walking around, I got the feeling that the right environment is key to opening up these young minds, helping them grasp every opportunity that will come their way.

I wish my school was just as influential. Who knows, I may have fulfilled my dream to one day design a project just like this!