Stendhal Hall of Residence Crous in Besançon

The project to renovate the common room of the Stendhal hall of residence in Besançon, France, was initiated by the local centre for student affairs (CROUS) to create a casual customized shared space integrating all services essential to students and staff, thereby laying the foundation for a new work paradigm with greater emphasis on digitalization and free access to information.

A warm and welcoming environment for students and staff

In an effort to reflect new living habits, the CROUS set out on a project to update this 150-sqm mixed-use space both aesthetically and functionally, and to turn it into a place where people come to experience life together.

To fulfil this vision, the architects at Atelier Tardy were looking for furniture that could be used both by on-site staff and students for casual and collaborative interactions.

The team were immediately won over by Cider’s style and highly flexible furnishing solutions.

‘We chose to work with Cider because of their flexible furnishings and deep understanding of the CROUS’s expectations for this project,’ explained Charlotte Tardy, Communications Manager at Atelier Tardy.

A ‘student house’ designed in Cider’s image

For this renovation, Cider curated a combination of multipurpose furniture integrating smart technology, without losing touch of the project’s aesthetic.

Standing at the centre of the space is a table from the ‘À Table’ collection, a specially customized version with white legs. Featuring in-built connectivity options, this piece conveniently lends itself to a variety of uses. It also serves to separate two seating settings featuring low- and high-back ‘Cast’ sofas, thus establishing a sense of visual symmetry and creating a soothing feel.

Popping up throughout the space, ‘Petal’ tables and ‘À Dada’ poufs add a more playful and relaxed twist.

Cider and Atelier Tardy opted for furniture in softer tones of pink and grey to evoke cocoon-like comfort. 

A thoughtfully curated living and meeting space to democratize design

In an interior that artfully combines aesthetics and function, Cider was able to introduce good design where it is least expected, and to rejuvenate this outdated space.

In addition to providing enhanced everyday comfort for students and staff, and contributing a more positive experience of higher education, this project was an opportunity for Cider to place design front and centre, and to share its expertise with a wider audience.