Bakewell, DE45 1JA
Contemporary Laboratory to respect an inspirational colleague
Situated in the market town of Bakewell since 1939, Lady Manners is very much connected to the community and the surrounding areas. In its 300 years legacy it has sought to continually improve the learning environment for its students but there was one legacy that has mattered more than others in recent times; that of Mrs. Sinnott the science teacher.
Innova Design Group have been touched to be part of this special project and delighted to bring to life our design and manufacturing expertise, in the installation of this 21st century laboratory, creating “… a clean, light, modern environment which encourages learning and is a pleasure to teach in.”
The school couldn’t be happier with the stunning room; which meant Mrs. Sinnott’s dreams have been fulfilled and the school has left her a legacy. This has been a hugely rewarding experience both for Innova and the school. “This fantastic new facility will be well used and enjoyed by our current and future students”.
The Brief
As part of their ongoing commitment to developing their teaching spaces, Lady Manners came to a grinding halt with some of their plans as government funding reduced, leaving them somewhat deflated in the face of their ambitious ideas to completely refurbish their laboratory. This project was hugely important to them as the school wanted to honour the wishes of Mrs. Sinnott, the much loved science teacher who sadly passed away in 2018. She was passionate about Physics and sought to foster this in her students. She had always aspired to enjoy a modern and sophisticated space to inspire and enhance the science teaching, but unfortunately this was not to be in her lifetime.
However, all was not lost and Innova, having previously successfully completed a food technology room, were asked to bring this project to life. Thanks to the determined efforts of fundraising campaigns from the Parents Association, the pupils, governors and friends of the school; the funds became available and Innova set out to design an inspirational teaching space that could match, if not supersede Mrs. Sinnott’s dream.
"Excellent design the finished product is just as we imagined. The project was professionally managed and completed on time and within budget and everyone is delighted with the results"
The Solution
The overriding impact of the laboratory comes from the clean lines and sense of space. The new laboratory design, placing the services away from the worktops ensures that the teacher has great sight lines. It also discourages students from using them inappropriately therefore preserving their life. This then enhances the worktop space giving students the space they need for theoretical lessons.
There is ample circulation around the benches which contributes towards the overall dynamic of the space and gives easy access for all students. Epoxy sinks are resistant and safe and interspersed around the room to avoid clustering.
The colour scheme is simple and in keeping with the school colours. The flooring is polysafe, anti slip and durable and harmonises with the colour of the plinths and internal panels. The edging and side panels are in blue to accent the white and grey and give a real contemporary kick.
Having plenty of storage is always a challenge. Clean lines and ample storage provide a clutter free environment conducive to focusing on the work. The benches all have lockable cupboards below, ensuring equipment is securely stored. The teacher desk is custom built using the same robust materials as all our cupboards. Every hinge, lock and handle is selected based on their durability and functionality. We are concerned with the quality of what we build and manufacture as well as the functionality of our design. The aesthetic is the satisfying topping.
We are delighted to be part of the heartwarming story of this refurbishment. Lady Manners will always have a special place in our hearts and we are so happy that the students, staff and parents are so thrilled with the laboratory. The school couldn’t be happier with this stunning room; which means dreams of leaving a legacy have been fulfilled.
Contact
Are you looking to create an effective learning environment for students to excel in? Contact us on 01614775300, email hello@innovadesigngroup.co.uk or complete the form below.
