Frankfurt School of Finance: Harvard Lecture Halls

Project

Frankfurt School of Finance & Management

Location: Frankfurt am Main, Germany  •  Year: 2024  •  Scope: 20+ Harvard desks, 55 electrification modules, multiple floors  •  Type: Educational institution / business school

Heka fully outfitted the Harvard lecture halls—types A, B, and C—for the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management with over 20 specialized desks and 55 integrated electrification modules. This multi-floor project at one of Europe's leading business schools demanded premium materials (Fenix high-end surfaces), advanced technological integration, and acoustic optimization for interactive learning.

The Brief: What Kind of Space Does a Modern Business School Need?

The Frankfurt School of Finance & Management is one of Europe's leading business schools, renowned for its Harvard-style teaching method—where students work in groups, discuss, and present, not just listen to a lecturer. This requires lecture halls that are:

  • Configured in a Harvard tier layout (multiple levels, all students facing the center)
  • Equipped with electrification modules for each student's laptop
  • Acoustically optimized for group discussions (not just lectures)
  • Finished with premium materials that convey academic prestige
  • Technologically flexible for hybrid learning (students in the classroom + online)

Our Solution: 20+ Harvard Desks in 3 Typologies

Type A, B, and C Desks

We developed 3 types of Harvard desks, each for a different context at the Frankfurt School:

  • Type A: Basic lecture desks for standard classrooms
  • Type B: Desks for executive MBA programs (larger, with additional features)
  • Type C: Desks for seminar rooms and workshop spaces (modular, reconfigurable)

All typologies are visually unified (premium Fenix surfaces in a matte black palette) but functionally distinct.

55 Electrification Modules

Each seat has an integrated electrification module: a power socket, USB-A and USB-C ports, a data port, and a cable channel. A total of 55 modules were integrated into the desks—enough for hybrid lectures where all students are actively connected.

55 Hanging Hooks for Personal Bags

A detail that often goes unnoticed: under each desk is a hook for a bag or backpack. In Harvard-style classrooms, there is a lot of movement—students can't be expected to place their bags on the floor every time. The hook is a thoughtful ergonomic element that supports the learning flow.

Premium Materials (Fenix)

The desks are made from Fenix high-end surfaces—a composite material that looks like real wood or stone, is resistant to micro-scratches, and features thermal healing of superficial micro-scratches (self-healing effect). These are standard materials for the luxury hospitality and academic sectors.

Powder-Coated Metal Components

The structural elements are made of powder-coated steel in a RAL palette that matches the Frankfurt School's brand identity. Durability of 15+ years under intensive use.

Why Heka and Not a Local German Supplier?

The Frankfurt School evaluated several suppliers and chose us for our:

  • In-house production - all Harvard desks custom-made in Slovenia
  • Price competitiveness - Slovenian production with quality comparable to German manufacturing, but at a 30-40% lower price point
  • Local German support - Hit Preless GmbH in München provides a German-speaking team, fast delivery, and local service
  • Experience in the education sector - references from other schools and institutions

Results

  • 20+ specialized Harvard desks in 3 typologies
  • 55 electrification modules for laptops
  • 55 bag hooks integrated into the desks
  • Premium Fenix surfaces for academic prestige
  • Multiple floors outfitted (lecture halls + seminar rooms)
  • Acoustically optimized discussions in a Harvard layout
  • 3-year warranty + local service via Hit Preless GmbH

Services We Provided

Frequently Asked Questions About Outfitting Educational Institutions

Do you have experience with universities and business schools?

Yes. In addition to the Frankfurt School, we have experience with other educational institutions in Slovenia and the DACH region—from lecture desks to laboratory furniture. Our services cover the entire education sector.

Can you manufacture custom desks to our specifications?

Yes. The Frankfurt School Harvard desks were developed entirely in collaboration with the school's architect. Our in-house production facility masters custom development, prototyping, electrification integration, and premium materials.

How much does a project of a similar size cost?

The price depends on the specifications (number of desks, typologies, degree of customization, materials). The Frankfurt School project included the development of 3 custom types, premium Fenix surfaces, and 55 electrification modules—a typical medium-sized project in the education sector. We can prepare a specific quote for you: send an inquiry.

Do you only furnish lecture halls or also university offices?

Both. Universities have lecture halls, professors' offices, administration areas, meeting rooms, libraries, and student lounge zones. Heka can furnish the entire university facility—all from the same in-house production. We manage international projects via hit-preless.com.

Related References

Are you outfitting an educational institution or university? Send an inquiry or contact Hit Preless GmbH for the DACH market.

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