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.
