24th Jul 2025

Transforming a Historic Printworks into a Vibrant Community Hub

We partnered with Allia, a social enterprise supporting impact-driven organisations, to transform a disused print works in Papworth Everard into a vibrant, inclusive hub for the local community.

The result is a warm, welcoming destination that brings people together. The space supports local enterprise, facilitates connections and provides a platform for a wide range of community activities. With a cafe, brewery, rentable meeting rooms and adaptable social spaces, the new Papworth Printworks is already making a meaningful impact.

Designing for social impact

Allia’s work is rooted in social good, dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs, charities and communities. For this project, their goal was to bring new life to an underused building by creating an inclusive, multi-functional “social hub”.

The design brief had to reflect that purpose. Every decision, from space planning and accessibility to furniture and lighting choices, was dedicated to creating a space that puts people first.

A collaborative, people-first process

Working closely with Allia, third-party tenants and community stakeholders, we designed a space that could flex and grow with its users. The design had to accommodate a wide range of functions – and even a few firsts for our team.

We listened closely to the needs of existing tenants, incorporating both their vision and practical needs into the design. Creating a fully functioning microbrewery required close collaboration to meet technical and operational needs, all while maintaining a cohesive look and feel.

This collaborative, people-first process helped create a space that feels usable, inclusive and genuinely embedded in the community it serves.

Bringing a historic building to life

The original print works building was full of charm and character, with high ceilings, large arched windows and beautiful natural light.

Original architectural features were preserved and enhanced, creating a visual link between past and present. Exposed brickwork and open structural details celebrate the building’s industrial history, with modern design elements chosen carefully to complement them.

One of the most meaningful features is the reclaimed parquet flooring, salvaged from a local fire station and restored by hand by Allia’s in-house team. Alongside original windows and exposed brickwork, these details connect the modern space to its local heritage.

Flexible spaces for every need

Papworth Printworks is now home to a mix of flexible, multi-use spaces that support everything from yoga and mindfulness classes to playgroups, meet-ups and local business events.

Designing for flexibility was key. The space is divided into distinct functional zones while maintaining a sense of openness and connection. Whether someone is hosting a business meeting or leading a wellness workshop, the environment supports their needs and makes them feel welcomed.

Furniture and layout choices were made with adaptability in mind, enabling the space to shift throughout the day. There are quiet nooks for focus and reflection, and open areas that encourage energy, creativity and connection.

Inclusive by Design

To be a true community hub, the space needed to work for everyone.

Allia shared early on that many local users would have accessibility requirements, and the building needed to be fully accessible without feeling clinical or impersonal. We embedded this throughout the project, including level access, clear wayfinding, adaptable furniture and more to ensure that every guest feels comfortable and considered.

Looking to bring a community space to life?

We design environments that support people, purpose and place. Get in touch to see how we can help shape your next project.