In order to attain the Contract for the London School of Economics’ Marshall Building, Showcase underwent a rigorous tender process; including setting up a Virtual online Showroom to present products to the stakeholders, for them to make final product selections.

Showcase were awarded the contract in March 2021 and were required to work alongside LSE’s Capital Development team as well as Grafton Architects. Showcase advised at consultations with the LSE Project Management Team and Departmental Stakeholders; Academics; Teaching and Learning groups; and the Students’ Union layouts and selection.

The bespoke elements were worked on through a series of ‘Design Workshops’ which were attended by senior members of Capital Development, the project manager, Grafton Architects and Showcase.

Scope

The Marshall Building is a new building designed by Grafton Architects which spans 12 floors. It is a beautifully designed building which houses the LSE department of Finance, Management, Accounting, Students’ Union and Systemic Risk Centre.

From Showcase’ perspective the furniture package was compartmentalized into Teaching & Learning Spaces (1st & 2nd Floors), Academics Spaces (Floors 3 -9), Great Hall (Ground Floor), Students’ Union (B1) & Outdoor Terraces (1st, 2nd, 8th & 9th floors). Each setting had a different aesthetic and practical requirement, whilst delivering on the same quality and throughout the building.

The Teaching and Learning spaces included 6 lecture theatres, 6 classrooms, 1 conference room and large breakout areas consisting of collaborative, group and individual study spaces throughout.

The Academics spaces consisted of cellular offices, multiple occupancy offices, MSc & PHD offices, meeting rooms, common rooms, Reception Areas and Kitchen Areas.

The Great Hall is a vibrant and inviting space, which encourages groups and individuals to work, study, collaborate and relax. It houses bespoke, unique pieces of furniture such as the Butterfly Benches and Bramante booths; mixed with the familiarity of soft seating, collaboration tables (low and high), armchairs, café furniture and individual high back chairs.

The SU required furniture for Music Rooms, Lobby, Lockers and Kitchen furniture. The beautiful outdoor terraces consisted of a collaboration of tables, chairs, benches, lounge chairs and ottomans – a perfect summertime setting.

Services provided

The services provided by Showcase included furniture selection, design and consultation, space planning, project management, delivery & installation, aftercare and account management.

Value added

Showcase were expected to offer products at the very best value and often suggested alternatives to products specified to aid the project team in managing the budget whilst adhering to the project requirements. Showcase also provided all drawings with product furniture legend.

Asset tagged all the furniture in the building and maintained consistent team update meetings throughout the duration of the project. They further managed the snagging process and performed above and beyond to ensure the timescales, budget and quality of service was consistent throughout the duration of the project.

Sustainability accreditation

All furniture items were vetted by the LSE for recyclable and recycled content, as well as sustainable certification which was required for each of the manufacturers used.