Farnborough Hill – Sixth Form

Our team 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. Our design team, led by senior designer Roberto and consultant Dr Adam England, began crafting a space to turn the vision into a reality.

Bringing the Vision to Life

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.