The Vision
Envoplan worked with Farnborough Hill School to refurbish their Empress classroom and sixth form; we created a multifunctional classroom space for the girls, seamlessly blending socialisation and private study. The first part of the project involved revitalising what used to be Empress Eugenie’s bedroom into a “special classroom” infused with historical relevance. The vision was to craft a forward-thinking learning space, respecting the Empress’s legacy. Alongside this, we gave their sixth form a new lease of life.
The Designs
The design team, led by senior designer Roberto and consultant Dr Adam England, began crafting a space to turn the vision into a reality.
Vision to Reality
The ground floor exudes an industrially inspired yet completely welcoming atmosphere. The space now features a large kitchen with tables and stools, soft seating for large groups, and intimate pairs of chairs with small tables. Clever use of the understairs space for storage further maximises functionality.
On the first floor, the design offers a contemplative setting with comfortable seating and expansive windows providing views across the site while letting in plenty of natural light. Modern yet classical furniture, visible pipework, and bare brickwork contribute to the industrial aesthetic complemented by colours that harmonise with the natural surroundings.
The design for the Empress room incorporated key elements to revive its historical charm and significance. Chinese-inspired wallpaper now adorns the walls, paying homage to Empress Eugenie’s interest in China and the museum she established in Paris. Additionally, Little Gem tables played a pivotal role, as their unique design made them easily movable and allowed for effortless reconfiguration. These thoughtful design choices contributed to the room’s aesthetic appeal and ensured practicality and flexibility, aligning with creating a unique and adaptable learning space.
The Impact
The sixth form is in constant use, and the girls love how it is refreshingly modern and encourages them to study or take a break.The design encourages a dynamic blend of collaborative and individual learning, dispelling initial concerns about potential underuse. Furthermore, the space reflects the school’s commitment to embracing modernity while creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment.
As a whole, the objective was to strike a balance that encourages collaborative work and individual focus, ensuring a return on investment.
Gallery
Case Studies
Peterborough School
The Vision With the support of their governors, the Peterborough School embarked on an ambitious project to reimagine their early years classroom, envisioning a reception …
Farnborough Hill
Designing and Delivering a Flexible Classroom and Multifunctional Sixth Form
Tormead School – Sixth Form Centre
This cutting-edge sixth form centre has directly led to a very positive impact on learning outcomes and wellbeing.
Halliford School – Learning Resource Centre
Halliford School worked with Envoplan to create a brand-new Learning Resource Centre for students, staff, and visitors.
Marist School – Sixth Form
The Marist School embarked on a project with Envoplan to redesign their sixth form, driven by Headmistress Jo Smith’s vision of a bright, purposeful, and multifunctional area that fosters academic and personal growth.
Sherborne School For Girls
Sherborne School needed additional study space due to the increased number of pupils for Sixth Form entry.
Edgbaston School For Girls
Edgbaston Sixth Form Centre approached Envoplan with a challenge to refurbish its existing learning space.
St. Christopher’s School
St. Christopher’s Prep School for Girls isn’t any old school. Over 140 years ago, the school was founded as a small establishment in Hampstead, run entirely by Miss Roberts in her father’s drawing room.
Tring Park School
Tring Park School -Brief It would be an understatement to say that Tring Park School, established in 1939, has had an interesting history. The independent …
Badminton School – The Hub
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Eaton Square – Senior & Sixth Form School
These spaces are designed to provide students with a new sense of ownership and responsibility at Eaton Square
Rokeby – Washrooms
Founded in 1900, Rokeby School has made a name for itself by passing admirable values of respect, success and a passion for learning to its students for over a century.
