SILBERRAD STUDENT CENTRE,
UNIVERSITY OF ESSEX

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

An important new statement entrance for University of Essex is created with a student centre, lakeside square and extension to the Albert Sloman library. 

Together they provide an integrated learning centre, library, reading room, student media centre, one-stop-shop for student facilities and board room. 

The existing 1960s library is considered to be of architectural merit and the new wing makes repeated reference to the existing building. 

A large sculptural column carries the extra-high loading of the end walls. Full-height glass wall lighting the galleried reading room has structural mullions that double as brise-soleil. Bay window reading areas were completed as lightweight aedicules within the main frame.