All teenagers seek a space of their own, a place to focus, collaborate with peers, and engage in meaningful pursuits. With this in mind, we are delighted that RGS Guildford Dubai has created The Den, an exquisite common room for senior school students which magically transports them to a quintessentially British setting, one that could rival the grandest of those imagined in the Harry Potter series.
Stepping into The Den, students are immediately met with a sense of home and a further important demonstration of the school’s very real connection to the rich 500-year heritage of the home school in Guildford, England. From the deeply cushioned Chesterfield sofas to the polished wooden panelling, every detail has been meticulously curated to echo the ambiance of an old English common room, much like one would expect to find in an aristocratic country house. The muted tones of green and burgundy are paired with warm lighting, inviting students to settle in with a good book, catch up with friends, or prepare for their next class.
The interior design goes beyond aesthetics, it’s truly British in every sense. A traditional British countryside signpost marks the distance between the two campuses—3,414.75 miles. Inside, from the clock on the wall, an exact replica of the one that hangs in the historic corridors of RGS Guildford in Surrey, to the same six historic Houses that students from both schools represent proudly the design choices remind students of the school’s proud British heritage.
Louise Ford, Head of Senior School, shared her excitement about the new addition: “The Den is a wonderful new addition to RGS Guildford Dubai, offering our senior students a space that reflects both our heritage and our ongoing efforts to create a balanced, student-centred environment where they can grow both academically and socially.”
The Den is more than just a room to unwind; it’s a reflection of the ethos of the school, a blend of tradition and modernity, with a focus on both academic and personal growth. It provides more than just a space to relax, The Den is a place where students can exchange ideas, revise for exams in an inspiring setting, and, most importantly, foster those lasting friendships that define school life. It’s a room filled with character, history, and a touch of magic—RGS Guildford Dubai’s very own enchanted corner of England.