Creating a Modern, Multifunctional Community Hub

The newly refurbished Leeds University Art Café is a spacious, modern, and welcoming venue designed to bring together students. Serving as a multifunctional space, the café encourages people to gather, work, and socialise in an inspiring setting that blends comfort with practicality.

Inside Out Contracts was chosen as a furniture supplier for this exciting project, providing pieces that combine design appeal with durability, perfectly suited to the high-traffic demands of a university café.

The vision for the Leeds University Art Café was clear: to create a versatile space that inspires connection and community. The university sought furniture that would support various uses – from casual coffee breaks to collaborative work sessions – while enhancing the café’s contemporary aesthetic. Inside Out Contracts worked closely with the university’s team to provide seating that aligns with the café’s goals of inclusivity and warmth, while also being functional and resilient.

Furniture Selection

Two standout pieces were chosen for the café, each contributing uniquely to the ambience and functionality of the space:

1. The Alpha Side Chair
   The Alpha side chair was selected for its modern, sleek design and ergonomic comfort. Its strong yet soft lines bring a touch of elegance, creating a fresh and welcoming atmosphere. Built to withstand regular use while remaining stylish, the Alpha chairs add a contemporary edge to the café, ideal for students and visitors looking for a place to unwind, collaborate, or study.
2. The Parlour Stacking Side Chair
   To meet the needs of a flexible, multifunctional space, the Parlour stacking side chair offers simplicity and adaptability. With its timeless design, this chair integrates seamlessly with the interior, coordinating effortlessly with a variety of décor styles. The well-profiled seat and backrest ensure lasting comfort, while the stacking feature makes it easy to reconfigure the space for different activities or events. With a range of Beechwood finishes, these chairs add warmth and natural tones that enhance the overall café aesthetic.

The Final Outcome

The result is a bright, open, and thoughtfully designed space where the Leeds community can come together. The combination of the Alpha and Parlour chairs adds both structure and fluidity to the seating arrangements, creating zones that cater to individual study, group collaboration, and casual socialising. The spacious layout, complemented by versatile and comfortable furniture, establishes the café as a true community hub.

Inside Out Contracts prides itself on providing furniture that is both visually appealing and built to last. For the Leeds University Art Café, the company delivered pieces that met the client’s vision for a versatile, welcoming, and contemporary space. With an emphasis on quality, durability, and modern design, Inside Out Contracts helped transform the café into a place where functionality meets style, supporting the university’s commitment to creating spaces that encourage learning, community, and creativity.