Parcel rooms are often seen as purely functional spaces, but what if they could be more? What if they could be stylish, sustainable, and reflective of the same design quality found in other communal areas of modern buildings?
That’s the question we posed in our first-ever Room to Deliver: Post Room Design Challenge, a national competition inviting UK students to reimagine the traditional parcel room. Hosted by Parcel SafePlace and in collaboration with interiors specialist LOFT, the competition, which was open to students, set out to explore what happens when you fuse creative design with everyday utility, with the winning concept being brought to life in LOFT’s flagship showroom.
The Judging Panel
The competition was reviewed by a panel of industry leaders, each bringing expertise in design, operations, and student living:
- Dustin Fjeld, CEO & Founder, Parcel SafePlace
- Laura Lian Clarke, Business Development Director, LOFT
- Neil Burton, Managing Director, Collegiate UK
- Paul Watson, Managing Director, Now Student Living
- Kenneth Booth, Platform Director, Building Design & Construction Magazine
“We wanted to inspire students to rethink post room design, and the entries exceeded all expectations. The winning concept demonstrates how smart design can enhance both functionality and aesthetics.“
– Dustin Fjeld, CEO & Founder of Parcel SafePlace.
Winner: Ilias Gkoumas – University of Portsmouth
Ilias wowed the judging panel with a sophisticated concept inspired by the De Stijl art movement, channeling Mondrian’s iconic geometric abstraction. His design uses a structured black grid to provide visual cohesion, with lockers in bold primary colours forming storage compartments of varying sizes.
Not only is the space visually captivating, it’s also environmentally conscious, built from recyclable steel, finished in eco-friendly, non-toxic paint, and lit by motion-sensor LED lighting to reduce energy use.
Accessibility was central to Ilias’ design, with varied locker heights and an uncluttered layout to support all residents, including those with mobility challenges. The result? A parcel room that doubles as a functional amenity and a design feature in its own right.
“The winning design takes into account both operational efficiency and resident experience, making it a standout entry.“
– Neil Burton, Managing Director of Collegiate UK.
Runner-Up: Ben Broughton – Robert Gordon University
Ben’s entry stood out for its emphasis on accessibility. A wheelchair-friendly layout and dual-swing doors with braille signage ensure inclusivity, while a glazed front wall with wooden slats provides natural light and added privacy.
Inside, storage cubbies are set at various heights for easy access, with surfaces designed for both standing users and wheelchair users. Durable wood finishes and diffused lighting add warmth to the space, creating a post room that’s both functional and inviting.
“Sustainability was a key factor for us, and it was great to see so many students incorporating eco-friendly materials and design choices into their concepts.”
– Paul Watson, Managing Director of Now Student Living.
Runner-Up: Georgia Green – Norwich University of the Arts
Georgia’s concept embraced biophilic design, bringing the outdoors in through natural materials and greenery. The design features rich wood shelving, ceiling-mounted foliage, and a green colour palette to create a calming and wellness-focused environment.
Sustainable details like second-hand plant pots and recycled cardboard lighting make it not just eco-friendly but also full of personality and charm
“The creativity and attention to detail in these submissions were truly impressive, particularly the winning entry’s playful, modern approach.”
– Laura Lian Clarke, Business Development Director of LOFT.
A Glimpse into the Future of Amenity Design
This challenge demonstrates the growing demand for well-designed, resident-friendly spaces, even in traditionally utilitarian areas like parcel rooms. By blending sustainability, technology, and creativity, these student-led concepts have set a new benchmark for future accommodation design.
“Seeing young designers push the boundaries of what a post room can be was inspiring. The winner’s ability to blend innovation with practicality made their design truly exceptional.”
– Kenneth Booth, Platform Director of Building Design & Construction Magazine.
Keep an eye out as LOFT’s flagship showroom brings the winning design to life.
Click below to read the full article in BDC Magazine May 2025 edition (p92-95):
