the BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ standard, and any major refurbishments met BREEAM’s ‘Excellent’ criteria.
“However, getting old buildings to perform to such high environmental standards isn’t easy – and the library was no exception. Every part of the design and build process needed to be carefully considered and the products specified were a key part of this.”
Award-winning architectural practice and interior designers, Sheppard Robson developed an imaginative design scheme which used Interface flooring to help marry the library’s two distinct buildings, while also meeting the university’s sustainability goals. Around 10,000m2 of Interface’s Urban Retreat 501 skinny planks collection was specified in a range of colourways, creating a striking design in the four-storey library.
Colourways in Granite, Charcoal, Stone and Grass were used to surround
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a live ficus tree, giving a beautiful courtyard effect which can be seen from all floors of the library through a central atrium.
Commenting on the project, Marie Leyland, interior designer at Sheppard Robson, said: “We’ve worked closely with Interface on several projects in the past so already knew of the company’s dedication to combining striking design with sustainable manufacturing practices. As it’s made with 100% recycled nylon, Interface’s Urban Retreat 501 collection was a perfect choice for the library.”
“We also wanted to incorporate natural features into the space to bring a sense of tranquillity to students studying there, and Interface was able to offer a nature-inspired flooring solution that helped us to do this.”
Inspired by the principles of biophilic design, a concept based on people’s
instinctive love of nature, the Urban Retreat 501 range is evocative of dense woodland.
Speaking about the use of Urban Retreat 501 in the library, Marie commented: “The nature-inspired influences captured in the flooring tiles really help bring the library’s design concept to life. By surrounding the live ficus tree in the atrium with Urban Retreat 501 skinny planks, we were able to create dynamic patterns which complement the vibrant green colours beautifully.”
Anna concluded: “We’re so happy with the finished result. Working with manufacturers that mirror our sustainability values has allowed us to create a flexible and inviting space where students can feel inspired and motivated to learn – while minimising any negative impact on the environment.”
www.interface.com EDUCATION | 29
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