The Mansion House, the main school building – is a beautiful baroque-style stately home, built to a design of Sir Christopher Wren in 1685 and is a former home to generations of the Rothschild family. It recently commissioned a new boarding house from the architects Burrell Foley Fischer, with interior design input and furniture provided by Eve Waldron Design (EWD).

The project consisted of furniture and window treatments to the entire boarding house. This included bespoke design of accommodation furniture for 68 boarders as well as common room furniture on both floors. Other specialised furniture was also provided including drama storage and drama curtains, art furniture and cupboards and staff accommodation furniture. The brief was to deliver all this on a set budget, and before the start of the new term. When responding to the brief, the team ensured that their specifications related to the overall design of the building, using materials and colours to compliment it. EWD took into consideration the natural views through the large windows and got their cues for the colour scheme from nature beyond. They were keen to incorporate wellbeing and biophilic principles into their design as much as possible.

Biophilic design is a concept used within the building industry which increases connectivity to the natural world through incorporating the use of direct or indirect elements of nature. Research has shown that incorporating these principles can reduce stress, blood pressure levels and heart rates; all whilst increasing productivity, creativity and self-reported rates of well-being. With this in mind, EWD provided a scheme with natural materials, colours and textures in mind – materials included natural oak joinery, and a palette of calming greens and blues, as well as lots of plants within the scheme. Using plants within an educational space not only looks good and soothes, but also boosts the oxygen levels.

The boarding house had to provide spaces that were both restorative for boarders, conducive to studying, and fit for purpose – the school wanted the furniture to be robust and last. By selecting complimentary loose furniture that is built to last, the team ensured that the finished spaces were as sustainable as possible. Her team also provided window treatments along these same lines – which will last longer, which avoids the need to constantly replace pieces. This makes good business sense too and saves money in the long run.

Since opening for the start of the new school year, Elizabeth House has proved extremely popular amongst students, parents and staff alike. Anselm Barker, Tring’s Deputy Principal, said, “Eve Waldron and her team were a pleasure to work with... We are delighted with the result and the feedback from pupils, parents and staff has been overwhelmingly positive."