Drawing Studio - Arts University Bournemouth

Designed by Professor Sir Peter Cook RA and CRAB, the Drawing Studio at Arts University Bournemouth opened in March 2016. As the first purpose-built drawing studio at a UK art school in over a century, the building provides a dedicated space for drawing and creative exploration. It was officially inaugurated by the late architect Zaha Hadid, who expressed her admiration for the design.

The building features an all-steel prefabricated monocoque structure, with its distinctive sculptural form and blue exterior making it a striking addition to the university campus. Its construction consists of individually formed steel sections, designed to be connected through bolting and welding to create the complete structure.

CIG contributed to the realization of the Drawing Studio through material procurement, steel plate cutting, 3D cold forming, and the prefabrication of all structural sections. Our work also included trial assembly and basic coating at our factory before the sections were transported to Bournemouth, where they were welded together on-site.

Since its completion, the Drawing Studio has received several architectural distinctions, including recognition from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Civic Trust Awards, highlighting its distinctive design and contribution to contemporary architecture.