BREAKING: “Barbie movie” Forum social space costs University of Warwick £200k

The ‘Forum’, Warwick’s new ‘Barbie movie’-reminiscent social space, has cost the University nearly £200,000, The Boar can reveal.

Located by the Library Café, the Forum was intended to be a multipurpose area developed with a focus on sustainability and innovation.

First introduced to students at the start of Term 1, the space was developed in collaboration with Creative Giants, a Brighton-based creative consultancy. Their previous work includes partnerships with major institutions, artists, and events including the Science Museum and Glastonbury Festival.

Following a Freedom of Information request sent on 2 December, The Boar has found that the University paid suppliers £166,439 plus VAT, equating to £199,726.80 in total.

The Forum, Warwick’s newest open space, has cost the University nearly £200k

According to the developers, the vibrant, pink colour was chosen to foster “a playful, creative atmosphere where ideas can flourish”. The colour pink was said to invoke feelings of tranquillity, warmth, and nourishment, creating an “inclusive” environment that “invites people from all backgrounds within the campus community”.

It looks like the Barbie movie s**t on the library

Katie Todd, second-year student

However, having barely been used this term, Warwick students have overwhelmingly rejected the new design.

In comments on a 13 December Instagram post announcing the space, students expressed dismay over what one person called Warwick’s “newest campus eyesore”.

A survey published by The Boar on November 1, meanwhile, found that over 80% of students dubbed the new space “awful”.

One student, in an article published last week, did praised the space’s boldness, calling the Forum a “refreshing change to campus”.

However, Katie Todd, a second-year student, was one of many who told The Boar: “It looks like the Barbie movie s**t on the library.”

“I’m not really seeing the £200k investment here. There’s not even any covering for when it rains.”

Scarlett Finlay, first year History student

After hearing about the “extortionate” cost of the renovation, Warwick students were quick to share their thoughts.

Charlie, a first year Sociology student, told The Boar: “It’s an eyesore, and the fact it cost the University the equivalent of nearly 22 students’ tuition fees is just insane.”

Many students were quick to point out how the weather might affect Warwick’s latest glow up. Scarlett Finlay, a first year History student, said: “I’m not really seeing the £200k investment here.

“One night, me and a friend were sat out there to have a break from studying, and it was all just wet. There’s not even any covering for when it rains.”

Feeling that it’s money best spent elsewhere, Sophie, a first year Chemistry student, said: “It’s a waste of money, which should’ve been used to bring down Rootes Grocery prices instead.”

The University was approached for comment.