“The DigiLab installation was a particularly complex project due to the unique environment and functional demands of the space.

TOP-TEC worked closely with us throughout the process, designing, manufacturing, and installing the technical IT furniture that not only met our technical requirements but also aligned perfectly with our vision for the room.“

The results were outstanding, and their attention to detail and commitment to quality truly stood out.”

Aaron Turlington-Smith
AV Manager
Loughborough University

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Project Brief

The DigiLab West space was introduced to encourage practical, hands-on learning using next-generation robotics platforms (such as QTrobot, Clearpath Jackal) alongside immersive display technologies.

The key challenge was installing functional workspaces within a circular teaching hub without traditional layout constraints.

• Align precisely with the curved architecture.
• Secure expensive high performance PCs whilst providing accessibility and access for maintenance. across campus into student and staff meeting areas
• Provide workstations that created a real “wow factor” for students using the DigiLabs space.

Decision Process

The DigiLab West space was introduced to encourage practical, hands-on learning using next-generation robotics platforms (such as QTrobot, Clearpath Jackal) alongside immersive display technologies.

The key challenge was installing functional workspaces within a circular teaching hub without traditional layout constraints.

Design, Visualise & Manufacture

TOP-TEC’s in-house UK design and manufacturing team worked closely with the university to deliver tailored furniture solutions, offering detailed 2D technical layouts to help map workstation positions around the rotunda and maximise the use out of the curved space.

We also provided a series of detailed 3D renders, enabling stakeholders to visualise the space and review the overall design and aesthetics before production could commence.

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How did we help?

Curved and angled bespoke desks

designed to fit the rotunda’s form, ensuring cohesion between architecture and function.

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Effective cable management

Essential for the multiple robotics platforms, VR headsets, immersive screens, and GPU setups.

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Secure PC enclosures

Manufactured to the specific PC from Loughborough University to ensure security and accessibility for maintenance.

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Robust and secure furniture

With all manufacturing completed in the UK, guaranteeing high-quality oversight, durability, and a swift turnaround.

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The Result

DigiLab West is now an impressive, purpose-built space tailored for student-led digital experimentation. The bespoke furniture aligns with the rotunda architecture, creating an intuitive environment in which learners can engage directly with industry-grade robotics, VR setups, and GPU-intensive tools.

Feedback from students and faculty has been exceptionally positive. The furniture supports seamless use of advanced technologies in a collaborative setting and the pre-installation visualisation helped decision-makers feel confident in the final layout.

TOP-TEC’s partnership with Loughborough University on DigiLab West demonstrates the transformative potential of bespoke technical furniture, British-made precision, and collaborative visual planning. By providing tailored workstations that accommodate both space and technology, we helped enable a cutting-edge learning environment where tomorrow’s STEM graduates can genuinely thrive.