Transformation of a critical public space that connects two sides of the campus. Creation of a people-focused space that offers choice.
The transformation of the existing plaza presented an opportunity to increase informal learning areas by introducing a new mezzanine element. The curvaceous form of the mezzanine is designed to maximise the preservation of volume of the plaza while increasing the above-mentioned floor area.
The mezzanine is lined with vertical acoustic blades to the main plaza aspect to enable students a level of privacy and acoustic separation while offering views of the central stage from all aspects of the mezzanine.
This approach has resulted in the activation of the fringes of the space, with student collaborations being an integral element of the composition and experience. Observations of student behaviour suggested that students love to temporarily occupy a fringe space for informal study whilst being part of a wider, social study conglomerate. This is a term we refer to as ‘fringe migration’.
The design intent also applies good design principles of spatial flexibility, agility, comfort and the provision of choice. Settings accommodates a variety of short to medium-term stays with a community cloud lounge also accommodated.