The UTC is on an old industrial site next to a busy road, located near the banks of the River Thames and the Thames Barrier. A contemporary new three-storey building designed by architects Walters & Cohen forms the entrance, admin and general teaching building. 

Although in need of extensive repair, a single-storey warehouse dating from 1957 was considered highly appropriate for conversion. Mechanical ventilation has been introduced throughout the new facilities, which include state-of-the-art design workshops, specialised business project zones and a graphics and art studio, with high levels of natural light from a sawtooth roof. Exposed services are fully co-ordinated with the structure. 

Due to the industrial nature of the area, many buildings close to the site are occupied only during the week. The UTC provides much-needed activity in the evenings and at weekends, increasing pedestrians, creating an occupied urban realm and improving the chances of economic development in the area. 

The project has been successfully completed and was officially opened in November 2013 by HRH the Duke of York and former Mayor of London, Boris Johnson. Skelly & Couch provided full M&E, environmental and acoustic services in a design and build contract with BAM Construction.