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The Printworks

Exeter

Located on Western Way in Newtown, Exeter, The Printworks is a modern, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) complex operated by Homes for Students. Perfectly positioned within easy reach of both the University of Exeter's St Luke’s and Streatham campuses as well as Exeter College.

This project was delivered for Homes for Students, one of the UK’s leading providers of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA).

To keep pace with evolving student expectations and ensure the property remains competitive in Exeter's bustling student market, Inspired Projects was appointed to deliver a complete design, reconfiguration, and full refurbishment of the ground floor amenity, social, and fitness spaces.

Refurbished student accommodation at The Printworks Exeter by Inspired Projects featuring the Games Room
Refurbished student accommodation at The Printworks Exeter by Inspired Projects featuring the Games Room
Refurbished student accommodation at The Printworks Exeter by Inspired Projects featuring the reception
Refurbished student accommodation at The Printworks Exeter by Inspired Projects featuring the Private Dining Space

The Brief

The existing ground floor provided a range of shared amenities, but the layout no longer reflected the way students use these spaces today. The brief centred on reconfiguring the reception and communal areas to improve flow throughout the building, creating a more welcoming arrival experience while making better use of the available space.

A key objective was to create a collection of flexible environments that support every aspect of student life. The scheme incorporated collaborative study areas, quiet study pods, comfortable social spaces, upgraded fitness facilities and a private dining room, alongside practical features including refreshment stations and dedicated parcel storage.

The overall design was focused on delivering a contemporary environment that feels both functional and inviting. Through carefully considered layouts, modern finishes and thoughtfully designed amenity spaces, the refurbishment enhances the day to day resident experience while creating a stronger sense of community throughout the development.

The Printworks Exeter student accommodation CGI Ground Floor Proposal designed by Inspired Projects
The Printworks Exeter student accommodation refurbishment CGI by Inspired Projects featuring modern reception
The Printworks Exeter student accommodation CGI showing Private dining room designed by Inspired Projects
The Printworks Exeter student accommodation CGI showing games room designed by Inspired Projects
The Printworks Exeter student accommodation CGI showing collaborative study space designed by Inspired Projects
The Printworks Exeter student accommodation CGI showing games room designed by Inspired Projects

The Solution

Inspired Projects handled the fit-out and structural changes at The Printworks, working closely alongside Homes for Students and a trusted team of trade specialists.

The build was managed in clear stages, starting with a total strip-out of the old interior space. This allowed the team to completely rethink how the floorplan worked. From building new partition walls to re-routing electrical and plumbing systems, every step was planned carefully so the transition from the old setup to the new layout ran smoothly.

Quality and clear communication were the main priorities across every trade. The custom carpentry, fresh lighting, heating/cooling upgrades, and final decorative touches were all finished to a high standard. By keeping close oversight of every subcontractor on site, the project stayed on schedule, within budget, and met the design plans completely.

Because work took place in an active student building, safety and keeping noise to a minimum were essential throughout the build. The team managed everyday access and deliveries with extra care so students and staff could use the building safely with as little disruption as possible.

Before & Afters

The Printworks Exeter student accommodation refurbishment Before and afters by Inspired Projects
Before gym at The Printworks Exeter student accommodation prior to refurbishment by Inspired Projects
Before and after of the games room and study space at The Printworks Exeter student accommodation designed by Inspired Projects

How Inspired Projects Is Transforming PBSA and BTR

For over 20 years, we have worked at the intersection of design, delivery, and commercial performance across PBSA.

Inspired Projects is a leading fit out contractor and refurbishment contractor based in Manchester, delivering student accommodation refurbishment and commercial fit out projects across the UK. We transform outdated student accommodation into modern spaces that compete with new-build PBSA and BTR developments. Our focus is on delivering maximum value without unnecessary overspend. Clients return to us because we understand what drives long-term success: better resident experiences, operational efficiency and stronger commercial returns.

As a trusted delivery partner, we work closely with our clients throughout every stage of the project. We balance design ambition with budgets, programmes and commercial objectives. Every decision is made with long-term performance in mind, not just appearance.

Whether it’s rethinking amenity layouts, upgrading interiors, or repositioning an existing asset to meet modern expectations, our goal is simple:
to help PBSA and BTR schemes stand out, retain residents, and maximise returns.

Looking for a Fit Out Contractor?

If you’re planning a PBSA refurbishment, redevelopment or new build scheme and would like to explore how we can support your project, we’d be happy to have a chat.

Get in touch to discuss your upcoming development.