When Ainsley Gommon Architects was tasked with designing the new sixth form college in Connah’s Quay, it called upon Forbo Flooring Systems to ensure the interior design would easily accommodate changes in the curriculum, while clearly defining departments.
Deeside Sixth, a joint development between Coleg Cambria, local schools and Flintshire County Council, is a £14.6 million state-of-the-art centre, which provides a learning environment to offer enhanced curriculum options to A Level students.
A recent study by the University of Salford found that out of 10 influencing environmental factors assessed, five of them positively affected a pupil's learning progression, which included the amount of light they were exposed to, as well as the
use of colour. In fact, it stated that warm colours may complement a young pupils' extroverted nature, while cool colours could enhance their ability to concentrate on learning later1.
Throughout the main circulation areas of Coleg Cambria, Forbo’s general-purpose vinyl Eternal, in the natural-looking concrete colourway, was chosen. However to distinguish the unsupervised study and break out areas – in the very open plan interior – Ainsley Gommon Architects specified Forbo’s Tessera Create Space 2 carpet tiles. The understated linear nature of this carpet tile provided the study areas with a softer and more comfortable aesthetic, which contrasted well with the solid concrete effect in the walkways.
Forbo’s Sarlon Acoustic Vinyl collection also benefits from a PUR finish, which makes it is easier to clean and will ensure that it stays in prime condition, even when subjected to heavy footfall or spillages – ideal for art areas, which can get messy.
Furthermore, in order to prevent soil and moisture from the soles of shoes and wheel treads, being tracked into the building, Forbo’s Coral entrance flooring system was installed to protect the interior floor coverings. In fact, independent research has shown that Coral entrance flooring systems can reduce maintenance costs by 65%.
| Location | Deeside |
| Architect | Ainsley Gommon Architects |
