Woodland Lounge

Following the promotion of Elite’s furniture aligned with neurodiversity principles, the University of Bath approached our team to support the development of a new inclusive study space on campus. This project marked Elite’s first collaboration with the University of Bath, creating an exciting opportunity to demonstrate how thoughtfully designed furniture and environments can support diverse learning needs.

The Woodland Lounge space had previously served as a staff area and, more recently, as a communal learning room for students. The university selected the location to become the home of a new study lounge, designed specifically to provide a calm and inclusive environment that supports neurodivergent students while also offering a welcoming retreat for study and relaxation.

Acoustic comfort and spatial zoning were also essential considerations. PET acoustic screens were suspended from the ceiling, while Hive flooring-standing rotating screens were positioned strategically throughout the room. These elements act as acoustic baffles to soften background noise while also creating subtle physical divisions between different zones within the space.

To further support students who may benefit from low-stimulation environments, sensory nook pods were specified as part of the furniture scheme. Each pod incorporates calming LED lighting, offering students a quiet and private space to reset, focus, or simply take a moment away from busier areas.

The completed Woodland Lounge now provides a calm and restorative retreat within the university environment—an inclusive study space where students can comfortably study, relax and recharge. The project demonstrates how considered furniture specification and thoughtful design can contribute to creating environments that support the wellbeing and diverse needs of today’s student community.