Interior Architecture students reimagine historic St Austell Market House
03 February 2025
Second year Interior Architecture BA(Hons) students have been working on an ambitious project to breathe new life into the historic St Austell Market House. Tasked with developing ideas that respect the building’s architectural heritage while creating opportunities for community engagement and economic stability, the students recently showcased their creative concepts in a site-specific exhibition.
Built in 1844, Market House in St Austell is a Grade II* listed building and a cherished landmark in the town. The building has long served as a multi-use community space, comprising two Market Halls and a Town Hall. It was originally built using community funds and remains under the management of local volunteers. The building continues to support local creatives, entrepreneurs, and markets, while preserving its rich historical and architectural significance.
For their brief, the Interior Architecture students were challenged to come up with design ideas that align with the Market House’s history while proposing viable income-generating initiatives. Throughout the project, they engaged closely with the building’s unique features, considering how adaptive reuse could enhance its function as a creative and communal hub.
Reflecting on the project, Ellie March, an Interior Architecture student, said: “The community wanted to see this building thrive and it has been a pleasure, as a designer, to bring this building into the future. I have learnt to handle such a building with care, and make judgement calls when it comes to architectural value. This skill is something I will now take great value in as I continue my studies.”
A key part of the project involved visiting the site, where students gained firsthand experience of seeing conservation efforts in action. They observed specialists working on one of the historic rooms and received design tutorials and support from conservation architects Laura Highton and Milly Salisbury of Poynton Bradbury Architects, a local architectural practice renowned for heritage restoration.
Sholto Ross, an Interior Architecture student, told us: “It was such valuable experience to have a live site working with adaptive reuse. To work with a town that has such a unique and rich history was so exciting, especially as we were looking into heritage interiors.”
Chris Netherton, Market House administrator, added: “The enthusiasm and energy of Falmouth’s Interior Architecture students was plain to see on their very first visit to Market House. When they returned to hold their exhibition, the Board and I were so impressed at the concepts the students had come up with, and how they had navigated the many hurdles and challenges within our building. We were overwhelmed by the innovation and talent they demonstrated in their amazing designs.”
Senior Technician, Dani Jenkin, who led the project, said: “Through engagement with the community and industry specialists, students had the opportunity to create realistic, meaningful and innovative designs that contribute positively to local communities and heritage-rich environments.”
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