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Light Forms Collab Brings Fun Look to the Liz Hickson Academy

images of inside the Liz Hickson Academy

The new Liz Hickson Academy, a vibrant and functional addition to Crown Paints’ historic headquarters in Lancashire, England, is a creative and inspiring hub where employees can come together to learn, relax, and socialize. The space is divided into two distinctly designed areas – The Hangout and The Hideaway – each with a unique aesthetic for different activities.

As a partner of Material Source Studio, Crown Paints collaborated with a range of partners from Material Source Studio to bring the design to life, including specifying luminaires from lighting manufacturer Light Forms.

The Hangout space is designed for socializing and fun, reflected in its bold color palettes and vibrant furnishings. Large sofas in cozy fabrics encourage interaction and are the perfect setting for movie screenings, accompanied by cozy alcove seating for intimate conversations or playing board games.

Crown Paints and Light Forms worked together closely to blend a color palette and lighting scheme that brought a joyful energy into the space. Warm colors are enhanced by the lighting, tying the design together through playfully shaped fixtures and colors, such as the Moonband 60, suspended circular MoonRings, and the suspended linear Lightplane 2.5 fixture.

In contrast, The Hideaway is centered around a biophilic design made from sustainably conscious materials. This serene, nature-inspired environment supports wellbeing and relaxation. Natural wood finishes,  trees, and air-purifying plants provide quiet, intimate areas that are a sanctuary in the workplace.

Crown Paints’ Clean Air paint in earthy tones – for example, green – reflect the brand’s commitment to creativity and sustainability, while Nova Track Spot luminaires from Light Forms accentuate this relaxing mood by setting ambient illumination through dimming lighting controls and tranquil color changes.

Paul Shoosmith, Director at Light Forms noted, “It was a joy to collaborate with our partners at Material Source and Crown Paints on this exciting project. We have an excellent working relationship which allows us to collaborate creatively to bring together the interior design, colors, and furnishings in harmony with the lighting design to accentuate the overall aesthetics of each space. The Academy is a fun place for staff to socialize and meet up, as well as taking time to relax and unwind to improve their wellbeing.”

Project credits

Client — Crown Paints

Interior Design — Material Source Studio

Lighting — Light Forms

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