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Modern Breakout Space
Work/ Interior refresh and furniture supply for school staff rooms.

Interior refresh and furniture supply for school staff rooms.

CLIENT
Academies Trust
INDUSTRY
Education
LOCATION
West Yorkshire
COMPLETION YEAR
2023
THE CHALLENGE

We were tasked with transforming a series of school staff rooms for an academies trust in Yorkshire, ensuring they were not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional and comfortable. The goal was to create a sanctuary for staff amidst their busy schedules.

The existing spaces were outdated and uninspiring, with old, uncomfortable furniture that failed to provide the necessary relaxation and recharge needed between lessons. Each staff room required a complete overhaul to become a welcoming environment that promotes relaxation and comfort.

Comfy breakout seating in blue fabric
OUR APPROACH

Four moves that transformed the space.

01
Blueprint Design.

Our team began by developing a comprehensive concept design that addressed both the aesthetic and functional needs of the staff rooms. We created a blueprint that could then be rolled out across all eight staff rooms. The focus was on creating an environment that felt welcoming and rejuvenating, incorporating elements that would foster relaxation and productivity.

02
Furniture Source and Supply.

We provided a range of high-quality, ergonomic furniture to ensure maximum comfort and support for the staff. This included soft seating, modular sofas, tables, chairs, planters and storage solutions, all designed to create a versatile and comfortable environment.

03
Colour Psychology.

To enhance the calming atmosphere, we used a palette of soft greens, cool blues and warm reds, known for their soothing effects. The decor was complemented by natural elements and a modern kitchen, creating a tranquil environment where staff could unwind.

04
Zonal Planning.

The design included strategically planned zones to accommodate diverse activities within the staff rooms. These included: Soft seating areas for relaxation and informal conversations. Modular seating areas that could be used for collaborative work or individual tasks. Desking areas for short, focused work sessions. Table and chair setups for dining and social interactions.

3D visual of a modern staff room
THE OUTCOME

The completed staff rooms have been met with high praise from the teaching staff across all schools. The thoughtful design and high-quality furnishings have not only improved the aesthetic appeal of the rooms but also significantly enhanced their functionality.

Staff members now have a serene, comfortable space to relax and recharge, positively impacting their overall well-being and productivity.

Crafting spaces that inspire greatness.

WHY THIS PROJECT MATTERS

Designing for the people behind the classroom.

Staff rooms can easily become an afterthought, but for teaching teams they provide an important place to step away, recharge and connect during a busy school day. For this academies trust, we developed a design approach that could be rolled out across eight different staff rooms, combining comfortable furniture with dedicated areas for relaxing, eating, informal conversations and focused work. The result gave each school a more welcoming and useful space while maintaining a consistent approach across the wider trust. The project shows how investing in staff spaces can improve more than appearances. By considering how people actually use their downtime, even relatively simple changes to furniture, layout and surroundings can create a better everyday experience for the people behind the classroom.

BEFORE

Where we started.

The executive box before refurbishment
The staff room at the school before the refresh, with kitchen units, blue soft seating and lockers
A meeting room at the school before the refresh, with black framed chairs and a safeguarding noticeboard
AFTER

The finished space.

Modern Breakout Space Modern furniture installation in a workplace Soft seating in red and cream with a round timber table, set against a blue wall in a school Bar stools at the breakfast bar Feature wall lighting detail Modern High School Staff Room
SERVICES DELIVERED

One team, several specialisms.

This project combined several of our specialist services. Explore them on our Design, Build and Furnish pages.

> Furniture specification, supply and installation
> Commercial interior design

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