As more and more educational furniture manufacturers get savvy to the evolving demands of the fluid classroom, consumers have greater options to choose from. Though I should say that one half of this demographic (the students) remain a captive market. So it’s a good thing for them that companies like Groupe Lacasse has expanded wares for both teachers and students—the manufacturer offers a Classroom infrastructure suite that’s durable, highly functional, and aesthetically interesting to boot.

Modular Study Carrels. Manufactured by Groupe Lacasse.

Modular Study Carrels and Teacher’s Cart by Groupe Lacasse

What’s the basic unit of classroom furniture? In days past, the answer to that question might involve row upon row of non-descript student desks, facing front and center of course. However, today’s classroom demands a different animal, so to speak. Groupe Lacasse offers a variety of modular study carrel configurations, deeding tremendous versatility in terms of private or collaborative schemes.

The company’s study carrel line includes single, double, or double with privacy panel models. The single carrels offer side by side space for two students, and they can be joined back to back to create schemes for an interactive foursome in order to facilitate group work.

And as for teachers, Groupe Lacasse eschews the stark separation of a podium or lectern in favor of the congenial functionality of a multi-purpose teacher’s cart. This 25″ W x 24″ D x 39″ H unit features a 1 5/8” thick top and base, an optional storage lock, protective rubber bumpers, and a side foldable shelf.

Both the carrels and the teacher’s cart feature Groupe Lacasse’s patented durability and aesthetic options: “Quality thermofused laminates and steel, durable and beautiful finishes, colorful fabrics, and tough, easy to operate hardware.”

About the Manufacturer: Quebec-based Groupe Lacasse specializes in laminate office furniture, steel storage and filing, workplace systems and seating. Widely known for having perfected the seamless look and vaunted durability of thermofused laminate technology, Groupe Lacasse is respected as one of North America’s top manufacturers of systems for office, education, and hospitality environments—“offering a large and relevant selection of finishes, fabrics and features; versatility in functions; and detailing in construction.”