Old College, Aberystwyth University

One of the most ambitious heritage, educational, cultural and community projects undertaken in Wales

Modern open office space with large arched windows, yellow chairs, and a wooden table. People are working and conversing. Shelving with plants and artwork on the walls.
Aerial view of a seaside town with large buildings under scaffolding for construction.
Modern multi-level building interior with glass balconies, wooden accents, and an arched stained glass window; people interacting and walking.
Historic building under construction near the ocean

Aberystwyth University is the town’s largest employer, and while the iconic Old College remains a symbol of the institution, its function as a teaching space has steadily diminished over time. The University’s visionary redevelopment of this landmark offers transformative potential, economically, socially, and culturally, for both the University and the wider community.

The Grade I listed Old College, along with the adjacent Grade II listed Georgian villas, is being reimagined as a vibrant cultural and educational destination. The project will breathe new life into the underutilised site, transforming it into a dynamic centre for exhibitions, learning, discovery, and enterprise, while also serving as a hub for creative start-ups.

The redevelopment will introduce a range of new amenities, including a boutique hotel, conference and event facilities, and dedicated spaces for weddings and functions. Across seven floors and 143 rooms, the development will feature 10 flexible event spaces accommodating between 60 and 200 guests.

A striking new public entrance and atrium will be created through an architecturally sensitive extension to the rear of the Grade II listed Marine Villas. This will house a dramatic triple-height foyer, delivering a powerful sense of arrival and providing access to the building’s main spaces. Additional features include a visitor welcome centre, retail space, and a first-floor glass-fronted restaurant and bar offering spectacular views over Cardigan Bay. Office spaces and volunteer rest areas will be located on the second floor.

Upon completion, the revitalised Old College will serve as a landmark centre for learning, heritage, culture, and enterprise, organised into three themed zones:

  • Culture and Community: Hosting exhibitions, functions, events, a visitor centre, and a variety of food and beverage offerings.

  • World of Knowledge: Offering inclusive learning experiences through exhibitions, interpretation, training, and activities inspired by the University's history and collections.

  • Enterprise and Innovation: Providing flexible business units for creative enterprises, supporting entrepreneurs and nurturing emerging talent.

This ambitious redevelopment not only secures the future of a nationally significant heritage asset but also positions Old College as a cornerstone of cultural and economic regeneration in West Wales.