RIAI | Irish Architecture Awards

Citation

Architect’s Comments:

The spatial organisation of the building can be read clearly on entry to its airy, top lit atrium. 3760sqm arranged over three storeys with large classrooms, lecture theatres and laboratories located to the south, and smaller staff offices to the north. Vertical circulation and toilets are located to the east and social areas on all three levels look towards the campus at the west end. The atrium is the focus and heart of the building. A curved central stair connects all three levels as they step outwards, allowing the atrium to widen towards the top giving more light to the lower levels. The stepping within the atrium is reflected along the southern façade, where higher levels project outwards minimising solar gain to the floors below. The curved façade also serves to draw pedestrian circulation from the entrance area into the heart of the campus. The external materials, which consist of white concrete brick, clear double-glazing and painted metalwork, reflect the materials used in other recently completed campus buildings and consolidate the aesthetic unity of the Institute. Internally, the vocabulary of finishes is simple and consistent. Large areas of glazing, neutral colours and the warmth of timber create the backdrop. This allows key elements to be picked out and emphasised through a simple break in rhythm or shift in tone. Particular attention was directed towards the use and detailing of timber. Built-in furniture, reception desk, benches, shelves, tables and joinery throughout the building are finished in ash.

Client's Comments:

The Waterford Institute of Technology Campus is continuing to expand and this building was the latest addition. The building is located on a landmark site in a prominent position and marks the entrance to the campus as you drive along the Cork Road from Waterford. We specified the building in a fashion to continue the architecture of the campus and to fully reflect best pedagogical practice. The brief also dealt with aspects of light, space, sustainability and environmental issues. The architect dealt with all of our requirements in a proactive manner and delivered to the Waterford Institute of Technology a building of exemplary quality. As the project developed the site became extremely challenging with high levels of methane encountered on site. Gas amelioration works were required which proved extremely challenging to deal with in the context of fixed budgets. The building revolves around a central atrium which contributes to the strategy of daylighting, natural ventilation and energy conservation and provides a focal area for student congregation and access to all teaching and support areas. The architect’s attention to concept, detail and construction throughout the building from materials to fittings is intensive and invigorating, and delivered to Waterford Institute of Technology a building of exemplary quality onto an education campus of the 21st Century.