Bobby’s department store, an iconic Art Deco building on Sandgate Road in Folkestone, has been a beloved local landmark since its opening in 1931. Renamed “Folca” in 2020 through a public competition, this historic site is now set to play a key role in the regeneration of Folkestone’s town centre.

In September 2023, our team was proud to place 4th in an open design competition to reimagine this cherished building. Our proposal introduced a vibrant mixed-use development, aimed at reestablishing the “top of town” as a thriving hub for the community while honoring the building’s Art Deco heritage.

Although not selected, our design was part of a collective effort to support Folkestone and Hythe District Council’s Levelling Up initiative, which aligns with the priorities outlined in the Place Plan developed by We Made That. This project underscores the importance of creative collaboration in shaping the future of Folkestone’s urban landscape.