Building surveying students from Ulster University are working with Dominican College in North Belfast to explore sustainable design options for the historic St Joseph’s building, a B2-listed former house and schoolhouse dating to around 1908.

Originally named Fairbourne, the house was purchased by the Dominican Sisters in 1946 and renamed St Joseph’s. It served as a preparatory school for 150 to 200 pupils until 1977, later providing classrooms and music lesson spaces until 2000. The building has stood empty since the school's new facilities opened in 2006.

Due to its condition, the structure requires extensive refurbishment before reuse. The project investigates transforming it into a centre for music, drama, and community partnerships, including with the NIEA Music Service, while preserving its heritage.

Led by Joanne Wright, Programme Director for Ulster University’s BSc (Hons) Building Surveying programme, the initiative involves Principal Lynda Catney and the college estates team. Students have surveyed the building, met with college leadership, and consulted RICS Chartered Building Surveyors Gleeds, the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, and the Historic Environment Division.

Final-year student Edward McNinch described the project as valuable preparation for professional work through real client collaboration. Principal Catney noted the students' proposals for restoration and arts-focused repurposing, highlighting funding challenges for the specialist conservation work required.