- Location:
- Swindon
- Services:
-
Principal Designer
- Budget:
- £8.26m
- Client:
- New College Swindon
- Size:
- 8,976 m2 GIA
- Awards:
- Graphisoft Project of the Year - Runner Up
- Sector:
- Education - Further & Higher
Retrofit & Recladding
Interiors
The Swindon & Wiltshire Institute of Technology is a newly formed employer-led institution offering a high level technical education with direct routes to skilled employment.
Featuring striking 1960s brutalist concrete framed buildings, the renovation sought to create a new and innovated agile learning environment, which includes state of the art open plan engineering workshops, cyber suites and a film and media suite.
Whilst the tired, old buildings were transformed into modern hubs of technology it was important to retain their engineering heritage. Concrete repairs to the existing structure were carried out as well as replacement of all external glazing and a BREEAM Very Good rating has been achieved.
A change to the existing road layout and movement infrastructure within the site has led to the creation of a safe and attractive pedestrianised pathway to the new entrance. Soft landscaping enhances the new paving and presents an inviting approach to visitors.
New full height glazed bays have replaced the previous brown doors on The Corvus Building. Acting as a showcase, they allow visitors to glimpse the engineering activities within as they pass by on their way to the main entrance.
The new reception was created by repurposing and enclosing the dark underpass into a bright and airy welcoming area with exposed concrete, soffits and columns.
Internally, corridors have been transformed, removing the old-fashioned closed-off institutional feel by inserting large windows with visibility into the classrooms. The simple change establishes the feel of a modern, high-tech, commercial, teaching facility.
Specialist rooms include the Film and Media Suites that were highly coordinated with M&E for the lighting and feature infinity walls and green screens within the film studios. State of the art FESTO laboratories, welding booth areas and high-end industrial workshops are also specialist facilities provided.
The spaces have been designed for all users including fully accessible spaces, neutral colours, hearing loops and self contained WCs throughout.
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