Jasper Sanders + Partners, a notable player in the UK purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) landscape, has recently made significant strides with the promotion of Nathalie Kenning to Associate and the onboarding of Josie Robertson as a Junior Designer. These developments are indicative of the firm’s dedication to fostering talent and innovation within its ranks, particularly as it continues to navigate the evolving demands of the PBSA market.
New Talent on Board
Josie Robertson joins the studio as a Junior Designer after impressing the team during her initial recruitment interviews for another position a year ago. Over the past year, Josie has demonstrated remarkable growth in her design capabilities, and the studio is excited to welcome her aboard. Her fresh energy and innovative perspectives are anticipated to invigorate the team’s creative output, particularly in designing student accommodation that meets modern requirements.
Nathalie Kenning’s Promotion
Nathalie Kenning has been with Jasper Sanders + Partners since 2021, having joined directly after completing her degree at Leeds Beckett University. Her rapid rise within the company reflects her integral role in the studio, where she has garnered recognition for her exceptional design skills and her composed, thoughtful approach to both projects and the organisation as a whole. Nathalie expressed her enthusiasm for her new role, stating, “I’m delighted to be stepping into the role of Associate at Jasper Sanders + Partners after nearly five years with the practice. Having joined as a graduate, it’s been an incredibly rewarding journey to grow within a team that truly values development, trust, and ambition.”
She attributes much of her professional growth to her close collaboration with Founder and Director Jasper Sanders and Creative Director Rebecca Kelly, highlighting how their mentorship has been pivotal in her career. Nathalie also expressed her pride in the projects she has delivered and her eagerness to see several key schemes she has led reach completion this year.
Commitment to Positive Impact Design
Nathalie’s commitment to creating designs that promote social impact aligns perfectly with the studio’s ethos. Her recent work, particularly on the campus totems at Salford’s Exchange Quay, has received notable acclaim, being featured in WORKS Magazine, appearing on the cover of Facilities Management Journal, and earning nominations at the FX Awards 2025 and commendation at the Sign Industry Awards 2026. Such recognition underscores the studio’s focus on delivering projects that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also socially and environmentally attuned.
As a multifaceted designer, Nathalie’s ability to engage at all stages of the design process—from concept development to detailed oversight on-site—sets her apart in the industry. Jasper Sanders lauded her, stating, “Nathalie is a strong designer and one of those rare true all-rounders, who can apply her talents at every stage.” Her involvement extends beyond design, as she is increasingly central to the studio’s daily operations, mentoring junior team members and helping to cultivate a collaborative environment.
Current Projects and Future Outlook
The firm is currently engaged in a variety of projects across the UK, with recently completed schemes in major cities such as London, Manchester, Liverpool, and Edinburgh. Their core sectors encompass commercial residential works, including PBSA, Build to Rent, co-living spaces, as well as interior and workplace design. Notably, the interiors for LSE’s Robeson House in London, which was completed in February 2026, exemplify the high-quality design standards the studio upholds.