The Project

The Junction, a key component of the University of Warwick’s Innovation District, recently underwent a remarkable transformation. The Warwick Innovation District is a hub that fosters innovation, education, and incubation, aiming to inspire creators, technologists, and humanitarians to contribute to a better world. It brings together academics, businesses, founders, and investors, promoting entrepreneurship and providing students with opportunities for critical thinking and creativity.

Since its launch in 2020, start-ups and SMEs within Warwick’s Innovation District have raised over £100 million in funding, with over 20,000 individuals engaged in innovation, leading to the establishment or support of over 700 businesses. Run by the University of Warwick, a thriving Russell Group University with 30,000 students, it is uniquely positioned to combine research and teaching excellence with entrepreneurship.

The Brief

The renovation of the building prior to its launch, represented a significant shift in the identity of the Junction. The building was formerly known as the Sports Centre, housing a swimming pool, climbing wall and other athletic pursuits. The facility was completely converted and refurbished to be reborn as a centre that brought together the Innovation Group, the Postgraduate Hub and Warwick Esports Centre. The Junction now serves as the core of the Warwick Innovation District by bringing these various services together to allow space for research, entrepreneurial pursuits, examinations and timetabled teaching.

The vision for the project was to turn the building’s exterior into an inspiring, educational, and incubating space to mirror the work that was being done at The Junction.

The Solution

Graphic Signs was tasked with enhancing the front of the building with large-scale images of entrepreneurs who had been educated at Warwick. These images were intended to inspire all who passed by, reflecting the Innovation District’s values.

The Graphic Signs team collaborated closely with designers from the University’s Marketing team, using the University imagery. The project was a substantial undertaking, involving the installation of large graphic panels that required specialised access equipment. Some of these panels were illuminated, incorporating lightboxes, to create a stunning impact by day and night.

Despite the large-scale project, our team was able to install the project within a week to prevent disruption on campus.

 

The Result

The transformation of The Junction was truly remarkable. The width of the building, measuring 180 feet, was adorned with six large panels, featuring inspirational figures from Warwick’s entrepreneurial legacy.

Our work effectively turned an ordinary space into a visually appealing environment, aligning it with the branding of the Innovation District.

The project showcased the power of collaboration between the Graphic Signs team and the University of Warwick, to achieve a visually stunning and inspiring exterior for The Junction.

This project not only brightened the facade of the building but also solidified the building’s identity as a thriving hub for innovation and education, contributing to the mission of the Warwick Innovation District in fostering entrepreneurship and regional prosperity.

The partnership resulted in a powerful transformation that now stands as a testament to the University’s commitment to innovation and education, as well as the Graphic Signs team’s expertise in bringing such visions to life.

Graphic Signs is proud to have had the opportunity to contribute to this transformative project. We have had the privilege of collaborating with the University on numerous occasions in the past, and it is always a pleasure to be part of initiatives that enhance the community. We look forward to witnessing the positive impact of The Junction’s renovation as it continues to foster innovation and prosperity in the region.

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