LD Seating has helped shape an unused reception area at Republic London in Canary Wharf into a welcoming breakout space designed for conversation, collaboration and moments of downtime between classes and meetings.
Working alongside Footprint Commercial Interiors, the Czech family-owned company developed a bespoke configuration of its Nido modular seating system, turning a previously underused thoroughfare into a space people can genuinely enjoy spending time in.
From thoroughfare to social space
Republic is a next-generation education campus in East London focused on creative talent and innovation. The campus is home to universities, learning institutions and creative businesses, alongside cafés, restaurants, a gym and more than 55 000 m² of affordable workspace within a lively mixed-use environment.
Although positioned at the centre of the campus, the reception area had long functioned primarily as a thoroughfare. Footprint Commercial Interiors approached the project with the aim of better organising the generous open space and creating a more inviting environment that would encourage people to stop, sit and connect throughout the day.
Nido configured for campus life
Working closely with the design team, LD Seating developed a bespoke Nido configuration tailored to the scale and practical demands of the interior. The final layout combines two and three-seater bench modules with integrated wooden tables and additional cushions, creating a flexible arrangement that supports everything from informal meetings and solo work to moments of relaxation between classes.
Colour and fabric selections were carefully chosen to complement the bold artwork already present within the interior. The result is a strong visual identity that feels playful and welcoming without overwhelming the space.
“We were working with a generous open space that needed seating capable of supporting the daily use of the entrance hall while making it feel more welcoming and inviting to spend time in. Together with LD Seating, we selected the Nido modular system and developed a colour and material palette that works naturally with the bold elements already present in the interior,” explain the interior designers from Footprint Commercial Interiors.
Modular seating for shared spaces
Designed by Orlandini Design studio, Nido was created as a modular seating system for shared spaces. A wide range of modules, base options and accessories allows the collection to adapt to different environments and ways of working, from offices and educational settings to hospitality and public spaces.
“The way people use educational and workplace interiors continues to evolve. Spaces are becoming more open, flexible and welcoming, with a growing focus on comfort and areas where people can relax, meet or work more casually throughout the day. This is where we see the strength of modular seating systems like Nido, across lounges and relaxation zones, meeting rooms, hotels and public interiors,” says Jakub Huráb.
The completed breakout space reflects Republic’s role as a campus built around learning, creativity and community, offering students, staff and visitors a place to gather, recharge and spend time throughout the day.
