Loughborough University, ranked among the UK’s top universities, is known for its cutting-edge teaching environments and commitment to delivering exceptional student experiences.
As part of a major refurbishment of their lecture theatres, the university sought an innovative seating solution that would support collaborative learning and integrate seamlessly with modern teaching technologies.
This flagship project marked the development of the Connect bench seating system, designed in collaboration with Loughborough University and Burwell architects. The goal was to create a first-of-its-kind solution that reimagined lecture theatre seating for the modern age. Key objectives included:
Designing a seating system that enables flexible and collaborative teaching styles
Incorporating technology integration to support a fully connected learning experience
Developing an ergonomic, durable solution tailored to the demands of a high-traffic educational environment
Creating a clean, contemporary aesthetic to complement the university’s refreshed interiors
This pioneering approach aligned perfectly with Loughborough’s ambition to offer students forward-thinking spaces that support new ways of teaching and learning.
Race Furniture worked in close partnership with Loughborough University and the architect to develop and deliver the Connect bench system from concept to completion. This included:
Co-developing Connect: Working with stakeholders to design a seating system that met ergonomic, aesthetic, and technological needs
Supplying and installing Connect benches throughout the refurbished lecture theatres
Incorporating features to support power and data integration, ensuring the spaces were ready for technology-enabled teaching
Using robust materials and finishes designed to endure daily use while maintaining a high-quality appearance
As the first installation of Connect, this project set the standard for future educational spaces across the UK.
The refurbished lecture theatres at Loughborough University set a new benchmark for educational seating. The Connect system, co-developed as part of this project, has since become a core product in Race Furniture’s educational portfolio, and its roots at Loughborough remain a testament to the university’s innovative spirit.
Professor Tony Hodgson, Dean of Loughborough University Design School
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