Innovative Southerns Solution

Published: September 30, 2015

Interiors specialist, Southerns, has completed the design and installation of an interiors solution for an innovative new building at Loughborough University. The new building for the Health, Exercise and Biosciences department, will incorporate a new National Centre for Sport & Exercise Medicine, one of three such pioneering sites across the UK.
With a unique remit, Southerns brief was to match the proposed use with an interiors solution that would enable occupants to be active. Wherever possible, active furniture was sourced, procured and installed, which included standing workspaces and exercise equipment fitted, for use whilst working. The £10m Olympic Legacy building will be a hub for sports experts and professional athletes throughout the UK and beyond.
Southerns Project Lead, Gaynor Smart said: “We have many years of expertise in the education sector, but this project is unique and really pushed our thought processes. We worked closely with the University, contractors and end-users to ensure we provided a truly eye-catching space, to match the theme of the building. The knowledge gathered during our sessions working with key stakeholders, helped inform an extensive research and audit programme into suitable workplace solutions. We then compiled a shortlist of appropriate, innovative products – from leading specialists – that would enhance the building in terms of aesthetics and practical use. The finished building is a world-leading facility and we’re proud to have played our part.”
The project cements the Southerns business as a leading provider of FF&E solutions to the education sector. Over recent years, there have been significant changes in demand, as well as an acknowledgement that FF&E plays an integral role in how a building is used and even user productivity.