The Flexible SLICE Student Desk: Collaboration and ADA Compliance All-in-One!

At MiEN, we believe that every furniture piece installed in educational and office spaces plays a pivotal role in creating a well-designed and effective environment. We strive to develop innovative furniture solutions that are useful and functional in a variety of different spaces, which has led us to create a core collection of Signature Selections. MiEN’s Signature products include some of our most versatile pieces, which are iconic, innovative, patented, and prized.

We are highlighting the SLICE Student Desk, a versatile desk that fosters flexibility and collaboration and adapts to the needs of diverse spaces. The SLICE desk is a solution designed primarily for learning environments, combining function, flexibility, and accessibility to adapt to a variety of educational spaces. From K-12 classrooms to university student centers, the SLICE Student Desk is a Signature Selection that enhances learning and productivity.

While the SLICE desk thrives in K-12 classroom environments, it is designed to meet the needs of many different spaces. The height-adjustability of the desks ensures that they can accommodate students from elementary school through high school, making the SLICE a worthwhile investment for schools who want adaptable furniture that grows with their students.

Outside of the K-12 classroom, the SLICE desk has proven effective in higher education settings as well. MiEN installed SLICE desks in the SUNY Student Center, providing students with a flexible space that encourages collaboration.

One of the standout features of the SLICE desk is its ability to accommodate many different layouts and configurations.

In classrooms, the SLICE desk works well with a variety of teaching styles and educational needs. For instance, a serpentine layout created with SLICE desks creates a natural flow through the space while also providing a teacher-centered space that allows for engaging lectures.

“The desk design facilitates student communication and collaboration with one another in both content-based discourse as well as in forming interpersonal relationships among students as they learn to work as a team to form a family atmosphere in the classroom,” said Dawn Crim, a Perry High School math teacher who uses SLICE desks in her own classroom. “Learners can be involved in a round table, a half circle, a long conference table, groups of 2s, 3s, 4s, or even a table all to themselves if that is required.”

Installing casters on each foot of the SLICE desk creates instant mobility, allowing for easy reconfiguration of learning spaces. We like the unique “wheelbarrow” style the SLICE desk can accommodate––with one caster and two stationary feet––so desks stay put while students are using them but move around smoothly when needed.

The SLICE desk is designed with accessibility in mind, helping to create a learning space that is welcoming and inclusive. The curved PAL Legs are ADA compliant, providing additional clearance that allows wheelchair users to easily fit their chair under the desk. This design feature enables wheelchair users to sit at the same tables as their peers, cultivating an inclusive environment that is equitable for all students.

At MiEN, we put careful thought into the development of our innovative furniture pieces, ensuring that they are functional and effective in a variety of spaces. In our endeavor to provide creative furniture solutions, we have an extensive research-based design process. We are deeply committed to developing unique furniture pieces that solve design challenges and shape the industry.

Because we dedicate significant time and research into our furnishings, MiEN works to obtain patents for our top products, including the patent for the SLICE Student Desk. Our investment in the patenting process reflects our confidence in the SLICE desk’s ability to transform educational spaces.

The SLICE desk pairs well with several accessories that enhance its function in educational spaces. The Volt Charging Station fits nicely in the center of SLICE desks configured in a circular layout, allowing students to charge personal devices right at their desks.

SLICE desks also function well with the FFL chair, MiEN’s traditional 4-leg student chair with a sleek and colorful shell. FFL 4-leg chairs are lightweight and stackable, making them perfect to pair with the SLICE desk in flexible and adaptable spaces.

An integrated markerboard surface––either partial or full––allows students and teachers to work on problems directly on the tabletop. Optional storage capabilities include bag hooks that attach to the underside of the desk and integration with a removable tote storage system.

The SLICE desk is an innovative furniture solution that supports learning, inclusivity, and flexibility in a variety of educational environments and beyond. This iconic student desk is one of our Signature Selections because of its ability to enhance the function and design of the spaces where it is implemented.

“I love the interest the SLICE desk brings to the atmosphere of the classroom,” Crim said. “I can change the configuration to meet learners in several ways. The SLICE desk offers a perfect blend of flexibility and structure, working to meet the needs of every student.”

Learn more about MiEN’s Signature Selections by reading our virtual brochure.