InnovationRCA Start-Up and Fellowship Projects

InnovationRCA Start-Up and Fellowship Projects

Helping students and graduates transform compelling ideas into successful businesses, our mission is to strengthen the culture of design innovation and entrepreneurialism at the Royal College of Art.

At the Royal College of Art, the mission is clear: to help students and graduates transform compelling ideas into successful, purpose-driven businesses. InnovationRCA fosters a culture of design innovation and entrepreneurialism, empowering creatives to shape industries and challenge norms.

One such graduate is Lauren Barfoot, founder of Holland Street, whose journey from MA Textiles student to luxury fashion entrepreneur exemplifies this spirit. While studying at the RCA, Lauren developed an innovative construction method for garment design—one that dramatically reduces material waste and champions environmentally conscious production.

This method now forms the backbone of Holland Street’s collections, including its signature luxury printed silk kaftans, kimonos, and interior linens. Each piece is crafted with precision, sustainability, and emotional resonance—designed not only to be worn, but to be experienced.

Holland Street’s approach reflects the RCA’s values: combining artistic expression, technical excellence, and business acumen to create products that are as thoughtful as they are beautiful. The brand’s commitment to low-waste manufacturing and timeless design proves that luxury and sustainability can—and should—coexist.

See the new Holland Street Products developed with the RCA here.

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