Cairnes School of Business, National University of Ireland Galway
4,700 sq. m knowledge centre
This challenging brief demanded an innovative and brand new learning facility to be constructed at the heart of the University of Galway campus, serving as the centre of knowledge for undergraduate and post-graduate students of business and economics. Adding to the design challenge was a potentially difficult sloping site and the additional requirement to incorporate the existing Centre for Innovation and Structural Change while providing connectivity with the adjacent St. Anthony’s building.
RKD’s solution turned a potentially restrictive site gradient into a characteristic feature. The top of the slope is addressed by a three storey elevation framed in beige pre-cast concrete that projects fully through to the opposite side and which is then subtly underscored by a fourth storey at ground level to account for the difference in height.
By taking full advantage of the building’s narrow footprint, positive learning and working environments have been generated in all occupied spaces through the use of efficient ventilation and prime access to natural daylight. To this extent much of the facade features extensive glazed curtain walling and sleek brise soleil screens to highlight the facility’s status as a centre of excellence that is as visually engaging to passers-by as it is mentally inspiring to the university’s students and staff.
Internal teaching and learning environments include computer laboratories, classrooms and lecture theatres together with a large open-plan area to facilitate workgroups, laptop study, meeting spaces and research. At the upper levels, staff are accommodated with cellular office space. Raised floors are utilised throughout to provide total flexibility and adaptability with regard to power and data services.
Connection with the existing St. Anthony’s building is achieved through the select use of light glazed link bridges that cleverly position the new facility in harmonious and respectful context towards its older neighbour. These bridges are raised to allow for a continuous footpath and courtyard space between the two buildings.
Location
- Galway, Ireland
Area
- 4,700 sq. m
Completion
- 2005
Cost
- €15m