Balliol College, University of Oxford

Enhancing Learning Spaces at Balliol College with Ferco Seating Solutions

Balliol College, one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges at the University of Oxford, recently embarked on an ambitious project to upgrade its learning spaces. The aim was to create an environment that reflected the college's rich history and academic excellence and provided modern, functional amenities for its students and faculty. Ferco Seating was chosen to deliver a seating solution that would complement the architectural vision and aesthetic of the renovated spaces.

Project Scope: The project involved the refurbishment of a key lecture and conference room within Balliol College.

The primary objectives were:-

1) To integrate a flexible seating system accommodating various teaching and learning styles.

2) Upgrade the seating to a premium level, enhancing comfort and functionality.

3) To ensure the new seating is aligned aesthetically with the historic yet contemporary design of the room.

SEATING SOLUTION

ARC Wood Premium Seats

To meet the high standards set by Balliol College and the architectural team at PenwardenHale, Ferco Seating proposed the ARC Wood Premium seats. This choice was driven by the following considerations:

Aesthetic Appeal: The wooden finish of the ARC Wood Premium seats was selected to match the overall design of the room, which featured a blend of historical and modern elements. The stained beech plywood (medium brown) added warmth and elegance, harmonizing with the college's traditional architecture.

Functional Design: The ARC Wood Premium seats were designed to fit dimensionally with the ARC One seat model, ensuring consistency and ease of installation.

Comfort and Durability: These seats were upholstered with Camira Vita vinyl in a sophisticated Koala color, chosen for its durability and comfort, ensuring a pleasant experience for users during long periods of sitting.

Turn & Learn System

Ferco's popular ARC One Turn & Learn System was upgraded to provide a more premium experience. This innovative system allows seats to rotate, facilitating interactive learning and group discussions. This flexibility was crucial for Balliol College, where dynamic teaching methods and intellectual debate are central to the educational approach.

Custom Finishes

The finishes for the project were carefully selected to complement the room's design:

Fabric: Camira Vita vinyl (Koala) for a sleek, durable finish.

Table Laminate: Formica Fundamentals (Biella Walnut) for a sophisticated, high-quality surface.

Seat Wood: Stained beech plywood (medium brown) from Ferco's standard range, adding a classic touch to modern functionality.

Implementation and Outcome

The installation of the ARC Wood Premium seats with the Turn & Learn system was executed seamlessly by the contractor, Wooldridge & Simpson Oxford Ltd. The collaboration between Ferco Seating, PenwardenHale architects, and the contractor ensured that the project was completed on time and met all of Balliol College’s expectations.

Key Benefits Achieved:-

Enhanced Aesthetic: The new seating perfectly matched the room's upgraded look, combining historical charm with modern elegance.

Improved Functionality: The Turn & Learn system provided flexible seating arrangements, supporting various teaching styles and enhancing the learning experience.

Increased Comfort: High-quality materials and ergonomic design ensure comfort for all users, aligning with the college's commitment to providing excellent facilities.

Conclusion

The successful completion of this project at Balliol College highlights our ability to deliver tailored, high-quality seating solutions that meet the specific needs of prestigious institutions. By combining aesthetic appeal, functional design, and durable materials, Ferco Seating has contributed to creating a modern learning environment that respects the historic legacy of Balliol College on time and within budget.