Liz Hickson Academy - Crown Paints
Crown Paints has opened the Liz Hickson Academy, a vibrant and functional addition to its historic headquarters in Darwen, Lancashire. The Academy is a creative and inspiring hub where employees can come together to learn, relax, and socialise. The space is divided into two distinctly designed areas - The Hangout and The Hideaway - each with a unique aesthetic for different activities.
Photos: Hayley Lightfoot
As a partner of Material Source, Crown Paints collaborated with a range of partners from Material Source Studio to bring the design to life, including specifying luminaires from Light Forms.
The Hangout space is designed for socialising and fun, reflected in its bold colour palettes and vibrant furnishings. Large sofas in cosy fabrics encourage interaction and are the perfect host for movie screenings, accompanied by cosy alcove seating for intimate conversations or playing board games.
Crown Paints and Light Forms worked together closely to blend a colour palette and lighting scheme which introduced a joyful energy into the space. Warm colours are enhanced by the fun lighting, tying the design together through playfully shaped fixtures and colours. This includes the Moonband 60, suspended circular MoonRings, and the suspended linear Lightplane 2.5.
In contrast, The Hideaway is centred 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 such as 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 colour changes.
