Create a lasting PRIZE installation where sustainability, creativity & place come together.
Student Design Competition
Castle House, a luxury townhouse in the heart of Nottingham, is proud to be launching an exciting new collaboration with Nottingham Trent University, inviting students to take part in a design competition with a real-world outcome.
£500 CASH PRIZE
The Competition
We are inviting NTU students to submit ideas for a unique, eco-friendly art installation or rooftop feature to be commissioned and installed at Castle House. The winning design will become a permanent or semi-permanent feature on our rooftop, creating something meaningful that guests can experience and enjoy.
Our Vision
We’re looking for a design that:
- Celebrates sustainability and innovative, eco-conscious thinking
- Enhances the rooftop experience for guests staying at Castle House
- Showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of Nottingham’s emerging talent
- Connects with Nottingham’s history, heritage, and our unique location directly opposite Nottingham Castle This is an opportunity to create something distinctive, thoughtful and site-specific, a piece that reflects both place and purpose
Supporting Nottingham’s Creative Future
Castle House is passionate about supporting Nottingham’s creative scene and nurturing emerging talent. This collaboration with NTU is just the beginning of what we hope will be a long-term relationship between the house and the city’s next generation of designers, artists and makers. We’re excited to see how students interpret the space, the city and its history, and to bring one.
Project Overview
Castle House, a luxury 6 bedroom self-catering townhouse located in the heart of Nottingham directly opposite Nottingham Castle, is inviting students from Nottingham Trent University to take part in a design competition to create a unique, eco‑friendly art installation or rooftop feature for their rooftop overlooking Nottingham Castle and Nottingham’s skyline. The winning design will be commissioned and installed at Castle House, forming part of the guest experience and contributing to the property’s long‑term vision of sustainability, creativity and connection to place.
Design Brief
Students are invited to propose a concept for an eco-conscious installation or feature suitable for an outdoor rooftop environment.
Designs should:
- Be environmentally responsible, using sustainable materials or principles
- Enhance the guest experience on the rooftop
- Be visually striking while remaining practical, durable and weather-proof
- Reflect or reference Nottingham’s history, heritage, or landscape, particularly the connection to Nottingham Castle & Robin Hood
- Be appropriate for a hospitality setting used by groups, families and guests and consider screening of the hot tub area within the designs
The installation may be sculptural, functional, interactive or experiential, provided it aligns with the brief and location.
Location Context
Castle House is a luxury group accommodation property offering six ensuite bedrooms & a rooftop terrace with views across Nottingham Castle and the city skyline. The rooftop is a key feature of the house and is used by guests for relaxing, socialising and celebrating. The installation should therefore complement this atmosphere and enhance the sense of place. Thought should be given to the hot tub position and whether screening or mobile screening should be included within the design.
Sustainability Focus
Sustainability is central to this project. Students are encouraged to consider:
- Use of recycled, reclaimed or low‑impact materials
- Longevity and durability of the design
- Environmental impact of production and installation
- How the piece communicates or symbolises sustainability
Submission should include
- A written concept description outlining the idea and inspiration
- Visuals such as sketches, renders, mood boards or models
- A short explanation of materials and sustainability considerations
- An outline of scale and placement within the rooftop space
- A budget to implement and install the project and any thoughts on longer term maintenance costs or considerations
Further technical details may be requested from shortlisted candidates.
Eligibility
This competition is open to Nottingham Trent University students, particularly those studying (but not limited to):
- Art & Design Architecture
- Product Design
- Fine Art
- Interior Design
- Fashion & Textiles
- Photography or Visual Arts
- Horticulture
Collaborative submissions are welcome
Selection Criteria
Entries will be assessed on:
- Creativity and originality
- Sustainability and environmental awareness
- Relevance to location, context and history of the building and Nottingham itself
- Practicality and suitability for a hospitality setting Overall impact and guest experience
Prize & Opportunity
- The winning design will be commissioned and installed at Castle House
- There is a budget of up to £1500 set and to be paid by Castle House for materials for the project, a costing exercise will need to be supplied along with submissions
- The student(s) will receive full credit and recognition for the work & a one-off £500 cash prize, split between the students if it is a group project
- Opportunity to gain real‑world portfolio experience
- Potential for ongoing collaboration with Castle House
Beyond the Competition
Castle House is keen to build a longer‑term relationship with Nottingham Trent University and its students. Beyond this project, the house may be available as a creative space for:
- Fashion and editorial shoots
- Photography and film projects
- Interior design showcases
- Fine art displays and installations
Key Dates
- Open House at Castle House 11th Feb 2.30-4.30 Opportunity to see the space & ask questions
- Submission deadline: 6th March 2026
- Shortlisting & review: *By 13th March 2026
- Winner announced: Mid March 2026
- Installation period: May/June 2026 onwards