Interior Designer Revamps Leeds College Support Department

Former BBC Interior Design Masters finalist Siobhan Murphy redesigns Future Pathways space

Leeds City College’s Future Pathways department, which supports 16 to 24-year-olds with special educational needs, has undergone a significant transformation thanks to interior designer Siobhan Murphy. Known for reaching the final of the BBC One show Interior Design Masters in 2021, Murphy applied her design expertise to improve the department’s environment.

Before beginning the project in July, Murphy engaged with students by visiting the department to discuss their ideas and deliver a masterclass in interior design. This consultation aimed to ensure the redesign met the needs and preferences of the young people who use the space.

Creating a multifunctional and welcoming environment

One notable change involved converting a former staff kitchen into a café area. This new space is intended to help students develop practical skills in hospitality and customer service. The project was supported by the Wickes Community Programme, a scheme providing paint and building materials for local improvement projects.

Murphy described the process of redesigning the space:

• Building a café counter
• Cladding walls
• Creating shelving
• Transforming the area into a cosy and functional setting

The design features warm colours and custom-made seating areas, aiming to create an inviting atmosphere where students can meet friends, have lunch, or take time out comfortably on campus.

Impact on students and staff

Oliver Johnstone, Head of the Future Pathways Department, commented on the changes:

“The makeover in Future Pathways has made an incredible difference to our daily environment. We’ve shifted from a stark, clinical white space to a bright, vibrant learning setting that our students and staff can truly be proud of.”

“Beyond just aesthetics, this redesign has fundamentally changed how the space feels – creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages engagement and gives everyone who walks through the door a real sense of ownership and belonging.”

The redesign reflects a broader effort to enhance educational environments for young people with additional needs, supporting both their learning and social experiences.