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What about key objectives?
The building should make learning visible internally
and from both quadrangle and street. The building
should act as a teacher, embedding cues to different
scientific, artistic and mathematical concepts to spark
the curiosity of students.
The Nautilus Centre is pretty anti-silo study in that
it promotes a real bond between the Arts Sciences
and Humanities.
The rationale for a new building rather than refurbishment
came from the desire to change the pedagogy and link
subjects across the curriculum. Feedback from staff
and students suggests this has already occurred –
teachers are exploring new ways of delivering curriculum,
students are encouraged to work differently, and on our
many visits since occupation we see students working
in many different learning modes.
Were there any concerns about a design as too
revealing or ‘open’?
Any concerns the building might be too open and
transparent have not been borne out in practise.
The turret design in the laboratories is working well
because it allows different configurations of tables to
suit the activity being undertaken. Staff and students are
already using the AV installations to allow more flexible
presentation methods with the large touchscreens giving
more options for display and interaction. Art now has a
large, sun-filled studio with direct links to design spaces
and a new outdoor courtyard.
“...seamless transitions
between indoor and
outdoor learning spaces
all combine to encourage
inter-disciplinary learning
and collaboration.”
HARIKLIA PONTIKINAS, ARCHITECT