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Let’s make your workspace work for you. From clever layouts to the perfect furniture, we’ll help you create a space that’s functional, stylish, and inspiring.
Goal
BFG originally fitted out the Kate Edgar Commons over 20 years ago. While the existing furniture had stood the test of time, the space no longer met the evolving needs of students.
There was a clear need to modernise the environment by:
· Introducing integrated technology for device charging
· Creating a warmer, more inviting atmosphere
· Updating the overall look and feel to better reflect how students study today
The goal was to refresh the space without a full redesign—working within the existing layout while significantly enhancing functionality and user experience.
How We Went About It
BFG was engaged to deliver a range of study settings that supported focused work, flexibility, and comfort.
Working within the existing footprint, we leveraged our in-house manufacturing capability to design and customise a solution that maximised both space and usability.
A key feature of the solution was our upholstered wall system, which incorporated:
- Integrated desktops for individual study
- Above-desk power and USB charging
- Acoustic benefits to support concentration
- Soft finishes to introduce warmth and texture
This approach allowed us to deliver a highly functional upgrade without the need for structural changes.
Key Challenge
A key challenge for this project was the tight delivery programme. All manufacturing needed to be completed over the January holiday period, with installation on site required to be fully completed ahead of Semester One.
This required careful planning across design finalisation, procurement, manufacturing, and logistics—ensuring minimal disruption while meeting a non-negotiable deadline.
Turn Out
The refreshed Kate Edgar Commons now provides a modern, technology-enabled study environment that aligns with the needs of today’s students.
The space offers:
· Comfortable, semi-private areas for focused study
· Integrated power solutions to support device use
· A warmer, more contemporary aesthetic
The result is a revitalised space that encourages students to stay longer, study more effectively, and feel more connected to their environment.
What We Used
Project Manager: University of Auckland
Custom upholstered Wall System
Konexus above desk power
Durable high performance fabrics
Locally Manufactured Components
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