Since Umeå Institute of Design opened in 1989, the school has gained a reputation as a dynamic environment with exceptional possibilities for creative studies.
The Institute is housed in a carefully renovated industrial building as well as in newly built premises located on the shore of Umeälven, the river of Umeå, and close to the centre of town.
The building is characterized by its large spaces and light atmosphere. Well equipped workshops are provided for woodwork, metal, plastic, clay modelling, assembly and painting.
The computer labs and studios, which are managed by the school's Computer Services, provide qualified facilities for students and researchers. The computer labs are also connected through a network to an advanced NC Milling machine, Laser Engraving machine and Rapid Prototyping machine run by the school´s Technical Workshop Manager.
High-speed network access is available from all the studios. The facilities are also equipped with a wireless network. High resolution scanning and printing equipment, servers, DVD-recorders, digital cameras and video equipment are also available.
UID also provides a 250 square meters full-scale laboratory for building full-scale models and test-rigs. A project studio is available for presentations and exhibitions, Additional facilities includes a video editing room, art studio, library, seminar rooms and an auditorium with 120 seats. At the institute there is also a typical Swedish sauna and a student kitchen.
Each student has their own personal workspace in an open studio environment, where a desk, chair, bookshelf, and Internet access is available. Students have full 24 hour access to the school seven days a week throughout the entire year.
