University Building in Singapore

HEATHERWICK STUDIO HAVE COMPLETED THE LEARNING HUB FOR NANYANG TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY IN SINGAPORE.

The project’s aim was to design a university building that removes the sterile feel of bland, windowless institution corridors. To foster interconnectivity, the building’s design centers around circular principles, and the architects succeeded in creating interior spaces without corners. In the 56 classrooms — called “tutorial rooms” — students stage discussions across round tables and participate in dialogue facilitated by professors. The design also incorporates built-in gardens and plenty of space for students and professors to get fresh air.

“Within this new context, the purpose of a university is to foster togetherness and sociability so that students can meet their fellow entrepreneurs, scientists or colleagues in a space that encourages collaboration,” the designers say on their website. Heatherwick Studio

The hub, completed in March of 2015, is part of a £360 million scheme by Nanyang Technological University, and is the first redevelopment of its campus in twenty years. The studio’s approach was to redefine the aspiration of a university building, and to once again make it an essential part of the tertiary education experience. Within this new context the purpose of a university is to foster togetherness and sociability, so that students can meet their fellow entrepreneurs, scientists or colleagues in a space that encourages collaboration. Each of these tutorial rooms faces the large shared central space, allowing students to continually feel connected to all the other activities going on in the building.

In 2013 the learning hub was awarded the BCA Green Mark Platinum Award for sustainability by the Singaporean government. The award is a benchmarking scheme which incorporates internationally recognized best practices in environmental design and performance.

The studio worked with local architects CPG consultants on the project.