Dame Allan's School

Dame Allan’s Schools in Newcastle, renowned for its commitment to student well-being appointed RDA, to redesign a few spaces in its new Sixth Form building. With a vision to cultivate an environment reminiscent of a university setting, the project aimed to provide students with a contemporary and inspiring space that they can use throughout the school day. The brief called for a timeless aesthetic, ensuring the design stands the test of time, so RDA responded by employing a thoughtfully chosen palette of neutral tones, punctuated with pops of colour, strategically placed to stimulate interest and creativity. Central to the design philosophy was the need for functionality and flexibility. To meet this requirement RDA incorporated varied seating arrangements, smartly zoned to suit a range of uses from dining to private study. The addition of shelving breaking the space up further. Planting, from Oasis Plants, was also a key inclusion, bringing elements of nature to the indoors and fostering a sense of well-being for the students. It was also critical that the design provided an optimum customer journey and was underpinned by operational excellence. RDA met the brief by specifying specialist equipment including a drop-in low level chilled multideck for drinks and grab & go, a glass bonded box for baked goods and bespoke white countertop Ceran plates and powder-coated white gantry above for display of hot items. The servery was also supported by a small but ergonomically designed back-of-house dishwash area, all contributing to efficient service. Supplier partnerships were crucial in bringing RDA’s creative designs to life. These included Proline, fabricating the front of house counter which boasts a ribbed oak and Solus tile front, with crisp white Corian top. Williams, Maidaid and Panasonic supplied catering equipment including refrigeration, dishwasher, ice machine and a high-speed oven. Satelliet UK and 2020 Furniture Design collaborated with RDA to provide robust, bespoke seating solutions, ensuring comfort without compromising on style. Steelplan supplied custom-made lockers, and RDA’s specialist joinery partner showcased their craftsmanship in supplying the high-quality shelving units and a striking school crest on the side of the locker units. The collaboration between RDA and Dame Allan’s Schools exemplifies a shared commitment to innovation and excellence in the education environment. The result, a facility that elevates the educational experience for generations of students to come. “RDA have helped bring our refurbished Sixth Form building to life." said Andrew Moore, Facilities Manager at Dame Allan’s Schools. “The feedback from staff and students has been really positive and the space has definitely helped to enhance the learning experience for our Sixth Formers.” The collaboration between RDA and Dame Allan’s Schools exemplifies a shared commitment to innovation and excellence in the education environment. The result, a facility that elevates the educational experience for generations of students to come.