Chameleon Business
Interiors –
the interior design, fit-out and furnishing specialist – has transformed a 19th century building at Hull’s oldest
independent school – Hymers College – balancing contemporary and classic design
to create a fresh, welcoming new space.
The sixth form common room,
headmaster’s office and reception area with accompanying offices were in need
of a significant refresh, so Hymers enlisted Chameleon to provide full design,
fit-out, refurbishment and furniture services.
Fiona Thornham, interior
designer at Chameleon said: “The spaces just weren’t appealing, they were
looking a little tired and needed a new lease of life – so that’s exactly what
they’ve been given!
“We’ve worked hard to create
a bright, modern feel, celebrating the heritage and character of the Grade II
listed building while also bringing in comfortable, practical and aesthetically
pleasing elements that ‘lift’ the spaces.
“The sixth form space has seen
the biggest transformation and looks absolutely fantastic. There’s now a
contemporary kitchen area with vibrant tiles and a high bench area – perfect
for students to gather at lunch or break times.
“We’ve broken up the space
with a variety of workspaces and collaboration areas, as well as a selection of
different industrial-inspired lighting designs, flooring and partitions. This
has added real dimension to the space and makes it feel really young and
modern.
“We incorporated screening to
breakdown the space but also maintain visibility. Additional power points were
added to provide the extra space needed to charge students’ all-important
devices – such as mobile phones, iPads and laptops.”
“We started the project in
July, so were careful to negotiate all that lockdown threw our way! But we
always design for people
first, keeping ‘proxemics’ in mind at every step of the process. So all of our
decisions are made to create timeless spaces that ‘work’ whenever they’re
developed – whether that’s pre, mid or post-pandemic!
“We’re incredibly pleased
with the outcome. Students will be wanting to stay at school for longer!”
Justin Stanley, headmaster of
Hymers said: “The students were blown away when they first saw the new common
room. It’s been completely transformed and we’re delighted with the new look.
“My new office and the revitalised reception area now feel refreshed and fit for purpose, as we reopen for a new academic year.”
Chameleon has been designing and creating people-inspired workspaces for over 20 years. For more information visit: www.chameleon-business-interiors.co.uk.
