A living, live-in archive

With former lives as Millbank Prison (1812-1890) and the Royal Army Medical College (1907-2000), the Atterbury Flat begins a new chapter as a living, live-in archive. From blank canvas to storyteller, the flat explores what we collect, what we value, and how university spaces can celebrate the breadth of beautiful and innovative work created by UAL students and graduates. Almost everything inside has been designed and made through paid opportunities including live briefs, commissions, competitions, open calls, placements and jobs, demonstrating how an institution can engage its own creative community in shaping the very fabric of its buildings. Expect 3D-printed botanical lamps, thermochromic furniture, beautifully crafted ceramics and textiles and everything in between. Every inch of the space has been considered: bath salts in the bathroom, eye masks beside the bed, bespoke door handles, furniture, fittings, lighting and wallpaper all sitting alongside a growing library of artists' books and publications. At its core, the flat is the outcome of a deeply collaborative pedagogic approach. Some contributors have used the opportunity to continue to develop their own practice. While others have used this as a chance to try something new. There’s something quite special in that mix, ideas meeting, shifting and growing together. We like to think of this project as something that changes over time, much like a home would, shaped by the people who contribute to it. Join us throughout the week for our open house, as well as a series of events and activations hosted by UAL students and graduates. We're excited to be collaborating with Sonder Haus, Lily Kong, What Does Not and more. The timings listed are for our open house. Please check back soon for event timings and booking links. For the closing weekend of LDF, UAL is bringing in female-led culture agency and social enterprise WHAT DOES NOT®️(WDN) to transform Atterbury Flat into a living room: a space for connection. Known for creating spaces that foster genuine human connection, WDN will curate a weekend takeover featuring a special edition of RAW, their flagship uncensored storytelling night, alongside immersive experiences and a secret gig—all informed by design thinking. Showing how empathy too, can be designed. For press enquiries or to find out more about the Atterbury Flat, we'd love to hear from you: atterburyflat@arts.ac.uk