The Ellen Terry building was built in 1880 and acquired by Coventry University in the late 1990’s. It was converted from its original form as an Odeon cinema in 2000 and has been occupied by the Faculty of Arts and Humanities in recent years.

Ellen Terry building in the 1980’s prior to conversion from a cinema.

The last phase of the project involved refurbishing its specialist facilities, remodelling and upgrading its lecture theatre and performance changing rooms as well as its teaching areas. The focus of the project is a new Social Learning Hub at the heart of the building.

Dr Shaun Hides, Academic Dean of Coventry University’s Faculty of Arts and Humanities, said: “This is another fine example of the university’s investment in our faculty’s infrastructure and our commitment to providing excellent learning spaces for our students to take advantage of.”

“We’re delighted with the ambition and support the university is showing through this development, which is a key part in the major investment in our faculty’s future. Together, these projects will take our Arts and Humanities facilities to the next level, giving our students access to innovative spaces that will support distinctive and truly cutting-edge approaches to creative and collaborative learning.”

The refurbishment works were undertaken by Overbury, commencing on site in May and completing for occupation in the 2023-2024 academic year. Robothams worked with project manager, Gardiner & Theobold and M&E services consultant, Stewart Associates on the scheme.