Chorley, PR7 2NJ
Southlands High School Dining Room
School Dining Room Refurbishment
Innova Design Group was awarded a contract by the school to design, manufacture, and install a bistro-style, multi-functional dining room that would serve as a versatile space for students.
The vision for this project was to create a comfortable and inviting environment where students could not only enjoy their meals but also relax, socialise, and unwind between classes.
It was intended to be a space that supported both social interaction and quiet reflection, accommodating individual students or large groups. The design included stylish, practical furniture, easy-to-maintain surfaces, and a warm, modern aesthetic that encouraged students to feel at ease.
CONTACT & MORE
The brief
To enhance the dining experience for students and increase overall capacity, the design focused on creating a flexible, inviting environment through the use of varied furniture layouts and a bistro/coffee house-inspired interior.
The goal was to transform the dining area into more than just a place to eat, but a dynamic social space where students could enjoy their meals, relax, and interact with friends in a comfortable setting.
The layout was strategically designed to offer a mix of seating options, including communal tables, smaller group seating, and cozy, more intimate corners. This variety ensured that the space could accommodate different group sizes and cater to the diverse needs of students, from those who preferred a lively, social atmosphere to those who wanted a quieter space to focus on their work or relax.
I have been to other schools, but never have I seen anything like the new dining room
MARK FOWLE , HEADTEACHER
The solution
We worked closely with Southland’s School Council from brainstorming ideas, choosing colour schemes to selecting products.
Our interactive design process ensured that all members of the school, from teachers to students, councils and governors, were involved in shaping a space that met their needs and preferences.
Innova transformed the outdated dining room into a modern, restaurant-inspired interior, preparing the school for the future.
Key features of the redesign included the installation of a stylish breakfast bar with trendy bar stools, a relaxing breakout area for students to unwind, eye-catching feature lighting, and bold, striking graphics to complete the contemporary look.
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Ergonomically designed benching and tables – increased capacity from 160 to 270
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Hard wearing laminates and solid work surfaces used throughout
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Splashes of colour, wall graphics and a striking stripped feature wall creates a modern and exciting space
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Sofas, trendy bar stools and breakfast bar added to the coffee house appeal.
Following the refurbishment, Southlands High School has been awarded the 2012 Speakers Prize for the best school council initiative in the UK “An enterprising design brief for a 21st century school dining room”. The award is designed to celebrate school council projects and recognise the importance of the student voice in schools across the UK.
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0161 4775300
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