WORDS: Studio Libeskind
PHOTOS: Hufton+Crow
Ogden Centre
Studio Libeskind
A spiral in plan, the Centre is designed as continuous, stacked
and interlocking forms. Clad in a ventilated timber rain screen
built from responsibly sourced Scottish larch, the dynamic façade
is punctuated with linear bands of operable strip windows and
a series of outdoor terraces. In addition, canted curtain walls on
the north and south faces bookend the form of the spiral and
provide spectacular views of picturesque Durham City and Durham
Cathedral.
The active form of the building unifies a rigorous, repetitive
programme of private work spaces along its perimeter with a
communal multi-story interior space activated by gathering spaces
and a massive central skylight. A new identity has been created
for the Centre resulting in unique individualized workspace that
engenders a sense of connection and community.
Daniel Libeskind said: “This project is an example of how to design
a highly-sustainable, dynamic building within tight programme
requirements. Light and openness is at the core of the design; at
every move in the design process we incorporated simple, yet
robust materials and considered the users’ experience to create this
important building for Durham University.”
Visitors to the Centre enter through a glazed lobby infused with
light. The interiors employ a natural palette of soft grey concrete
columns and ceilings, paired with warm wood finishes and frosted
glass. Pushing the offices to the perimeter of the Centre allows
each space to benefit from natural light and ventilation. In addition,
glazed doors and screens further transmit light from the exterior
to the central atrium. Generous roof terraces create spaces for
impromptu meetings or places to simply relax and enjoy fresh air.