York College unveils ‘best-in-class’ facilities

A new beauty training centre and revamped lecture theatre have been unveiled at York College following the completion of two refurbishment projects ahead of the new academic year.

York-headquartered interiors specialist Ben Johnson Interiors delivered both schemes, working alongside Yorkshire architecture practice Bowman Riley to modernise the college’s teaching and training facilities.

The first involved converting redundant office space into a dedicated beauty training centre, creating a professional environment for students and staff.

Completed within three weeks, the project included new flooring, ceilings, partition walls and kitchen units alongside redecoration and the installation of specialist beauty equipment and furnishings.

A second five-week programme transformed the college’s first-floor lecture theatre, which had not undergone refurbishment since the main campus opened in 2007.

Work included removing and reupholstering 90 seats, installing new lighting and acoustic wall panelling, and adding new flooring, a black ceiling and contemporary specialist furniture.

A new lectern has also been installed.

The improvements have created a more flexible environment designed to support teaching, presentations, seminars and events for students, staff and visitors.

Ken Merry, York College principal and chief executive, said: “Our hair, beauty and make-up courses are hugely popular and this development now gives us one of the best teaching facilities in the region, so it will make a massive difference to our students and staff.

“Modern lecture theatres are integral to the success of both our students and York College as a whole. 

“This work has given us a best-in-class facility and there’s no doubt it’s going to be a valuable asset for the hundreds of people who will use it every day.”

Emma Dodsley, from Ben Johnson Interiors, added: “We have a wealth of experience in the education sector, so it’s been a genuine privilege to support York College on these two projects in our home city.

“They also demonstrate our ability to work in live environments, while managing the programme challenges that inevitably arise on projects of this nature, without compromising on quality.

“Both completed spaces now offer inspiring and visually appealing learning environments that will support and enhance the high standard of teaching and training that York College is renowned for.”

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