Learning Space Solutions – University of Manchester

The Brief

Working in partnership with IS Service Delivery Manager Bill Ayres in the Faculty of Life Sciences, the key aim was to maximise the space and introduce flexibility through a cost effective whole room solution.

Twenty seminar rooms in the Stopford Building at the University of Manchester Medical School required refurbishment.

The existing oblong desks and chairs joined to form rectangular group study space. It was inflexible and created line of sight issues for students and lecturers when in discussion.

The Solution

A number of innovative designs were explored by representatives from the University. Ideas were consolidated for three distinct elements.

Bespoke Desking
In order to provide each student with unhindered visibility of the lecturer’s presentation, a bowed table design was specified. The bespoke table solution was divided into six sections which joined together to create a group table. This provided far greater flexibility in that each section could be paired to create smaller group tables. The whole table seated 14 students.

Audio Visual Lecterns
Minimising the space used by the lectern without compromising security or quality was of paramount importance. A Credenza lectern was specified as it provides 16U of secure rack space and a standing height presentation point from which a visualiser could be used to conduct seminar material.With a footprint of only 74cm x 67cm it is the most compact lectern available.

 

Seating

The AIR cantilever chair provides ease of movement and greater comfort with its mesh back. It was observed that a typical five castor pedestal chair would restrict movement due to the space required. The AIR Chair provided a quality glide solution.

Dalen’s whole teaching and learning space designs for the Stopford Building seamlessly integrated affordability, flexibility, technology and innovation.

Each seminar room was furnished to create a fresh, dynamic learning environment.