Useful Studio were commissioned in 2022 by Buckinghamshire New University to undertake full fit-out and partial refurbishment works to the Brunel Engine Shed, a Grade-II listed former railway station and goods shed in the centre of High Wycombe.

The building was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and built in the 19th century. It retains many of its original features, most notably including a series of queen-post trusses, contributing to a building rich with character which exhibits a level of craftmanship typical of its period.

Buckinghamshire Council undertook an extensive refurbishment and extension to the building over the years 2019-20, and in 2022 the building was acquired by Buckinghamshire New University. The building is set to open to the public as the university’s flagship building, housing an exhibition space, café and flexible workspaces for the community and local businesses. It’s intended purpose is to form a gateway to the town, welcoming visitors from the adjacent train station and providing an immediate visual cue to the town’s industrial heritage.

Useful Studio’s appointment was as lead designer for the final design phase of the works, which include alterations to the building’s envelope to enable passive ventilation, and a full interior fit-out with a particular focus on circular and natural materials, complementing the original building’s honest construction and appearance. Low carbon and recycled content materials including hemp have been integrated into the design.

The university are committed to a high performing environmental project, with aspirations for achieving SKA Gold, by embedding circular principles in the fit-out and operations. Working closely with services engineers Works Seven, a ventilation and servicing strategy has been developed which will significantly reduce the building’s operational carbon and mitigate the potential for cluttered servicing in the exposed soffit and original trusses.