Repton Dubai Performing Arts Centre Revealed as Cultural Hub Through Koda Design Vision

Koda Unveils Vision Behind Repton Dubai’s New Performing Arts Centre Koda (Kidzink Office of Design & Architecture) has revealed the transformative design vision of Repton Dubai’s newly launched Performing Arts Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that now serves as the creative and cultural heart of one of the UAE’s most prestigious British curriculum schools. The Centre, officially opened on 11 September 2025, marks a monumental milestone for the school and wider educational community. As part of a strategic initiative by Koda and Cognita — the global schools group that includes Repton Dubai in its portfolio — the Performing Arts Centre signifies a commitment to cultivating innovation, creative expression, and student well-being through thoughtfully designed learning environments. Designed for Expression, Built for Impact 600-seat auditorium, specialist studios, and rehearsal spaces offer students from Year 1 to Year 13 the opportunity to explore the full dimensions of the performing arts. Designed with evidence-based neuro-architecture for enhanced focus, imagination, and creativity. Kidzink managed delivery and bespoke furniture design, completing the transformation within just a year. “Today was a proud moment as we opened Repton Dubai’s new Performing Arts Centre, a space that will shape how our children perform, raising the bar for creativity, confidence, and expression across our school.” — Michael Bloy, Principal of Repton Dubai. He added: “Watching our Reptonians on stage showed just how high they can reach, and with our new Early Years Centre already sparking curiosity, and the Sports Village soon to open, these spaces will continue to lift performance and challenge every child to aim higher.” A Creative Vision Embraces Culture & Community “Our partnership with Cognita and work on Repton Dubai reflect a shared vision for more creative, enriching, and well-rounded educational environments.” — Sarah Cordova-Lau, Associate Director of Architecture at Koda. She emphasized that each architectural element was designed with flexibility, student well-being, and the transformative power of the arts in mind. “Repton’s new Performing Arts Centre aligns perfectly with Dubai’s cultural agenda and the UAE’s wider focus on creative industries and educational innovation.” — Charlotte Borghesi, Founder of Koda and Kidzink. Design in Focus — Where Elegance Meets Functionality The design philosophy was grounded in five core principles: elegance, duality, flexibility, functionality, and interaction. These guided the layout, finishes, and custom features integral to both school life and performance art. The Centre is a model for balancing tradition and innovation with architectural finesse. Highlights include: Timber paneling to enhance acoustics and visual warmth Layered LED lighting creating ambient, event-adaptive rhythms across auditorium spaces Navy and linen-toned interiors reflecting Repton’s brand identity, accented with touches of gold for sophistication Influenced by findings from resident neuro-architect Ana Mombiedro, the design promotes student well-being through optimized acoustics, natural light, and intuitive circulation paths. The entrance lobby functions as a welcoming café and community exhibit space. Blending polished concrete and Corian with natural materials, it acts as a cultural gateway while remaining accessible and multifunctional. Corridors integrate “performance pockets” — acoustically treated alcoves — encouraging impromptu expression and creative gathering outside formal rehearsal spaces. Technical Excellence That Performs At the heart of the Centre is a 600-seat auditorium equipped with industry-grade AV, lighting, and sound capabilities. Design innovations include: Enhanced sightlines for optimal audience engagement Inclusive accessibility features integrated into the structure Discreet and efficient MEP and extraction systems fulfilling modern safety and comfort standards These features ensure the space meets the professional standards required for both student performances and community events. The Performing Arts Centre also serves as a foundation for Repton Dubai’s Pearson BTEC curriculum in performing arts, giving students hands-on experience in production, direction, and technical staging. A Milestone in an Ongoing Transformation The new Performing Arts Centre is the first major achievement in Koda and Cognita’s long-term masterplan at Repton Dubai. Other facilities designed and completed by Koda include: The new Early Years Centre The upcoming Repton Sports Village A refined School Reception environment Future development will focus on upgrading the science labs, art rooms, and Sixth Form Centre, further enhancing Repton Dubai’s position as a global beacon of forward-thinking education. In bringing this vision to life, Koda and Kidzink have created more than just a performance venue. They’ve delivered a dedicated cultural epicenter—one that elevates how young people learn, express, and connect within their school and the world beyond. Team V.DIR-EM-UAE