Grimsby Institute of Further & Higher Education
Transforming a Lincolnshire college refectory and social spaces for an elevated student experience
The Grimsby Institute of Further & Higher Education is one of the largest providers of post-16 and higher education in the country, with industry-standard facilities spread over several campuses.
After a competitive tender process, Richardsons was selected to refurbish Grimsby Institute’s refectory and social space and breathe new life into the college.
The brief
Twelve years after Grimsby Institute’s University Centre building was completed, senior leaders wanted to refresh its central social areas to create a professional and welcoming space to enhance the student experience.
As the college had previously worked with an interior designer, they needed the Richardsons team to source and install all college furniture to match the designs and meet a tight deadline.
Our approach
We worked with our contacts at Grimsby Institute to carefully match college furniture to the designs provided. Due to challenges in obtaining specific materials and college items, the Richardsons team liaised closely with our extensive manufacturer contacts to provide suitable alternatives. We then coordinated deliveries and installation to meet the required timeframe and budget.
The result
The result is a new facility at the Grimsby Institute, known as ‘the heart of the campus’.

Large display screen
A floor-to-ceiling screen displays professional photography and key information for students.

Comfortable college furniture
Colourful, comfortable and low-maintenance college furniture provide areas for students to relax, socialise and eat in style.

Atmospheric lighting
Stylish lighting brightens the space and creates an airy, modern feel for both staff and students to enjoy.

Sound dampening
Subtle and attractive soundproofing materials dampen noise and allow students to enjoy the space even at busy times.
The impact
The success of the heart of campus Grimsby facilities has helped to further strengthen the ongoing relationship between Richardsons and the Grimsby Institute. Since the completion of the project, we have continued to work with the college to provide further learning facilities and educational furniture at its campuses across the Humber region.
