Virgin Atlantic

To completely refurbish a mixed light industrial building into a state-of-the-art training facility for the airline. The aim was to create a practical building, built for its purpose, to satisfy the training operations and ancillary staff services, with stunning, contemporary looks that staff would be proud to showcase.

The overall aim was to design a stylish and contemporary environment around a ‘Town Square and Streets’ concept with high use of natural light in its deep interior. Each facility was a micro project in its own right and staff had high input in the brief from early on.

The spaces were designed to be flexible with a relaxing décor; specific areas had mood lighting and state of the art technical equipment. The classrooms were designed to be used in variety of layouts and formats, and connect to the relaxing and light courtyard break-out areas.

The Base contains:

• An Auditorium with seating for 200 people
• 50 classrooms
• Specialised training areas
• A fully equipped Rigs Hall which is the most realistic airline training environment in the UK
• Salon – a beauty training facility with a complete range of professional equipment
• Cafe centrally located in the Town Square
• Shop
• Restaurant
• Uniform shop
• Travel agency
• General offices
• Open learning and staff facilities
• A main warehouse

The Base Training Centre features in the book ‘I Wish I Worked There!’ by Kursty Groves which reveals the world’s most inspiring and innovative places to work.

This project was worked on prior to the formation of Grigoriou Interiors; Elina Grigoriou was Lead Interior Designer.