This event has now taken place.

Venue: Edinburgh Futures Institute

The Edinburgh Futures Institute (EFI) brings new life to the former Royal Infirmary after years of dereliction. The Category A-listed Victorian hospital was in poor condition when the University of Edinburgh bought it in 2015. The project removed unsympathetic extensions, carried out repairs to extensive dry rot, restored the key elements to their former glory and stitched together new accommodation alongside the existing hospital wards and corridors to create a teaching facility and workplace for the future.

The project blends historic architecture with cutting-edge design to create a dynamic, interdisciplinary hub for research, learning, and collaboration. This visit offers a unique opportunity to explore how design can shape the future of education, support new ways of working, and foster meaningful engagement between universities and the wider community.

Draft Programme

1.15pm Arrival
1.30 –2pm Introduction
2.00 – 3.30pm Building Tour
3.30 – 4:15pm Discussion and Q&A
4:15 - 5:00pm Refreshments

University Design Forum extend their thanks to the host and sponsor, Edinburgh Futures Institute and Bennetts Associates.