Project Overview 

RCF Group partnered with Archbishop Moeller High School, a private, all-male, Catholic college-preparatory school in suburban Cincinnati, Ohio, to redefine educational spaces by incorporating real-world workplace elements into their newly built, three-story Innovation Hub, an addition to the original school facility. The Innovation Hub project team needed a forward-thinking partner to assist in shaping these education spaces through an integrated furniture design process. RCF Group answered the call of Moeller’s leadership seeking a comprehensive vendor who could deliver more than just furniture — they needed a partner who could adapt with their vision, provide transparency, and offer expertise in educational design and functionality. With a focus on relationship-building and hands-on support, RCF Group became the exclusive vendor for this transformative initiative. 

Client Goals and Objectives 

The primary goal of the Innovation Hub was to bridge the gap between traditional classrooms and modern workspaces. Moeller aimed to create an environment where students could experience settings similar to those found in corporate or entrepreneurial spaces. The design included a boardroom mimicking professional meeting rooms, a pitch room, huddle spaces, and flexible, technology-integrated classrooms. The spaces were crafted to enhance students' readiness for the real world by immersing them in settings that encourage active learning, collaboration, and adaptability. 

An important consideration was balancing functionality with durability. With high school students as the primary users, it was essential to select robust, long-lasting materials without compromising the design intent and function. The design aimed to give the space a professional yet educational feel, aligning with Moeller’s emphasis on preparing students for future workplace environments. 

Challenges and Solutions 

Moeller faced unique challenges due to the evolving nature of their curriculum. The Innovation Hub was intended to support future curriculum growth in fields like emerging technology, product development, media production and entrepreneurship. Since specific course content was still being developed, RCF Group had to ensure that the furniture and space design could adapt as the curriculum evolved. To address this, RCF Group created flexible layouts and provided furnishings that could be easily reconfigured.  

Another challenge was maintaining design consistency with the existing building while giving the Innovation Hub a distinct and elevated feel. RCF Group’s designers, integrated Moeller’s branding subtly through color schemes and finishes, creating a cohesive but refreshed look that resonated with the school’s identity without feeling institutional. 

Engagement and Client-Centered Approach 

RCF Group’s approach to the project was characterized by an emphasis on communication, transparency, and responsiveness. The design team worked closely with Moeller’s leadership, using advanced collaboration tools like Bluescape to provide virtual walkthroughs and design visuals, which helped Moeller envision the possibilities within the Innovation Hub. 

From the beginning, RCF Group kept the project timeline front and center, addressing scheduling in every meeting to align with Moeller’s expectations. By detailing furniture selections in rendered models, RCF Group ensured Moeller could fully visualize and approve each piece, fostering a sense of partnership throughout the process. 

Through frequent meetings and a commitment to understanding Moeller’s needs, RCF Group established itself as a trusted advisor. Their flexibility allowed Moeller’s team to adapt the project timeline as necessary, and their attentiveness to feedback ensured that the final design met both functional and aesthetic goals. 

Outcome and Long-Term Impact 

By listening carefully and responding to Moeller’s evolving needs, RCF Group’s ability to merge real life office design with educational intention helped shape these learning environments to meet the school’s current objectives while remaining adaptable for the future. In an evolving educational landscape, RCF Group continues to push boundaries, creating environments that support the growth and development of future generations and curriculum.