Sixteen3 is an independent furniture designer and manufacturer based in the UK. The company has an existing relationship with both Crown Paints and Penketh Group, so we were pleased to be selected to collaborate with Sixteen3 on the delivery of this exciting project.
The space itself uses a modern design scheme to celebrate both the rich legacy of Crown Paints and the company’s strong vision for the future. The space has been called the Liz Hickson Academy and has been named as a tribute in memory of a valued Crown Paints colleague.
The brief for the Liz Hickson Academy was to create a space that was creative, stylish and inspiring. In terms of the function of the space, it needed to be equipped to facilitate learning, relaxation and coming together in both a professional collaboration capacity and through social connection.
The vibrant, contemporary and multi-faceted space is made up of a synergetic ecosystem of settings. Each setting has been designed according to specific objectives and furnished to align with these creative, cultural and practical goals.
The Hangout
The space features areas for group interaction, private solo focus and everything in between. The Hangout is an on-site games room where employees can relax, rejuvenate and absorb the benefits of social capital in the workplace. High tables with green accents visually connect the space to adjoining rooms, while bespoke Monsal benches and Options tables create cosy alcove seating perfect for board games. Multi-level seating, including sixteen3 Lloyd stools, adds depth to the layout, with ample storage provided by Vepa lockers.
The Hideaway
The Hideaway is a tranquil sanctuary based around biophilic design to promote wellbeing and clarity of thought. Furniture choices, such as circular library shelving, Bodyn booths, and Link seating, provide quiet, intimate areas for reflection. Odyssey high-backed chairs and semi-circular Fuse 2 layouts offer cocooning comfort for both group discussions and individual moments of calm.
The feature bar is a contemporary blend of hospitality tropes with commercial design. It has been made using recycled plastic, which highlights Crown Paint’s commitment to a more sustainable future.