Unite used our Type table for common study areas in their new projects in 2019, in both standard forms, and in a number of new variations to incorporate screens, lighting, and planters.
The opportunity arose through Unite’s architects Manalo & White (M&W), who we have worked with over many years including notably the Slough Aspire project. Unite were seeking to provide study areas for their students which would set a new standard for the sector. There was a great emphasis on comfort and ergonomics, including supporting a variety of work and study styles. M&W tested many chairs and tables, settling finally on Type for its adaptability and robustness. M&W used this adaptability to full effect in combining screens and planters to deal with features such as columns and glazing.
Manalo & White’s Brian Greathead explains: “We have a longstanding collaborative relationship with MARK, so it was natural for us to work with the MARK range to suit the specific needs of students in Unite study spaces. With its simple robust frame, the Type table proved to be perfect for this. From our initial sketch MARK took on the challenge to integrate lighting with the tables and the resulting table is highly functional, economic and elegant, with an almost monumental strength, stability and durability”.
Most importantly, student feedback has been excellent and the rooms with the ‘Light Beam’ tables have proven to be the most popular, so much so that we have subsequently added this product to our standard range.
We are currently working on projects for Unite in 2020 in London, Manchester and Leeds.
