Part 02 In Part 1, we concluded that cuts in university capital spending, rather than stifling creativity, can ignite innovative ideas that shape the future of campus development. At Nomad, we have been through many financial storms, and these challenges often bring out our most creative solutions. We have successfully guided clients through these tough times with fresh, forward- thinking approaches. In this post, we will explore some of the solutions we have developed in collaboration with our clients. Addressing space challenges in universities with limited budgets requires creative, cost-effective strategies that optimise resources and align with long-term goals. The strategies our clients typically use to address budget constraints range from quick fixes like flexible modular designs to more ambitious efforts such as repurposing existing spaces or renovating historic buildings. The Heart of Campus project at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) is a prime example of these strategies. This project aimed to maximise space and enhance the student experience at a city-bound site by connecting three key university buildings through extensive refurbishment. The Heart of Campus introduced flexible spaces, including an arrival pavilion with a bespoke exhibition area, a multi-functional conference facility, a Student Services mall, a 500-seat restaurant, a boutique café, and several drop-in learning spaces, all linked by a landscape project that added much- needed parkland to the city centre. Many of these spaces are highly flexible, supporting various uses. The Study Club is particularly noteworthy, as it is student-run and can be used day or night for individual study, group work, or seminars. It features sliding screens for adjustable space division, modular furniture, and deep steps that double as seating for meetings, film screenings, and gatherings.
Experimental Teaching & Learning Spaces While GCU refurbished its existing space, King’s College London transformed the ground floor of the historic Somerset House into a suite of experimental teaching and learning spaces. Designed primarily for the K+ widening participation program, these spaces are flexible enough to support all students across the Strand Campus. The renovation includes six specialised rooms, such as the “Build It” room, where modular furniture can be moved, stored, or altered to fit each group with ease. The teaching spaces are connected by a generous circulation hall that takes advantage of the natural architectural alcoves to create places to meet and intimate one-to-one The pandemic forced many of our clients to rethink their approach, accelerating the evolution of ideas such as shared spaces, hybrid and online learning, virtual labs/ classrooms, and hot desking/co-working spaces. These innovations significantly reduce the need for physical space, allowing institutions to reimagine their campuses. contemplative spaces. Pandemic Innovation The Vision Project at Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) was a comprehensive, people-centred engagement initiative aimed at reimagining the university’s estate across all three campuses and setting the stage for transformative change. It resulted in eight project packages that featured many of these ideas, such as: + Study Lounges in the library and all learning spaces featuring privacy pods for one-on-one or hybrid meetings. + Installing specialist high-power hardware and accessories to support a hybrid culture. + Ensuring a good distribution of virtual simulation spaces throughout all disciplines to support immersive learning and provide “real-life” work experiences. + Equipping students with the
Below GCU Heart of Campus Study Club
The Study Club is student-run and can be used day or night for individual study, group work, or seminars.
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