Pod Space have created a large new multiple roomed building for a disused corner of Exeter University. Our recent Exeter University project has been as stimulating as the learning spaces we were asked to create. Originally contacted by the interior design specialists, Atkins Global, Pod Space were briefed to provide 6 – 8 self-contained meeting/study spaces for university students.
As part of the brief, the new spaces would be linked to the existing University building. The earmarked site for the study and meeting room pods was an area between existing buildings so a bespoke building that fit both dimensionally and aesthetically was required.
A clear brief was required and in true Pod Space style, good old teamwork prevailed. We worked in partnership with Exeter University, Atkins Global, Morgan Sindall the ground working team and Faithful and Gould as project managers, to develop an overall design scheme. The building design needed to maximise the available space whilst incorporating the educational needs of the students.
As the design process progressed it became clear that a single building would better suit the project and a new design that focused on one building separated into eight self-contained meeting room Pods fit the bill. Each meeting room was designed to accommodate a meeting table for eight people.
The new learning study pod would be flanked by university buildings on three sides, so it was crucial that the design incorporated glazing purposefully positioned to maximize natural light within the interior spaces – particularly important for study spaces and learning environments.
The final design has an impressive fully glazed central corridor and each individual meeting room directly benefits from bespoke glazing that channels sunlight from surrounding rooms. Exterior windows were planned to combine full height windows providing light throughout the entire space and desk height slot windows to provide views out into the University complex. In addition, to identify each room bespoke signage was incorporated into the glazing.
To complement the existing surrounding buildings the new pod’s exterior walls were clad in Western Red Cedar cladding with grey cladding panels to match the colour of the doors and windows.
The building also features a sedum roof providing a green and lush landscape to look down from overlooking windows within the main campus. Whilst inside the interior finishes provide a bright, stimulating environment in keeping with the contemporary look that is customary for our Pod spaces.
The University is delighted with their new modern learning space and we’re pleased to report the building is already in full use on a daily basis.
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