opportunity to acquire specialist practical skills by providing space and facilities to simulate lab techniques. The concept of VR/AR and hybrid spaces expanded beyond traditional teaching and learning spaces into workspaces, both academic and professional. The Research Quarters concept, which includes R&I quarters on each campus, promotes collaboration and community in spaces designed for innovation. ENU is currently exploring cutting-edge technology to support AR/VR, but an early exploration of virtual space can be seen in our previous project for King’s College London. The 360 Room teaching space uses simple projection technology to create a 360-degree immersive environment, supported by flexible modular furniture solutions and teaching aids. Although the pandemic pushed academic spaces to consider hot desking and hybrid working, these concepts have existed in the commercial sector for some time. So when the European Central Bank (ECB) approached us to explore the potential of a hybrid, activity-based workplace in Frankfurt, we were delighted yet surprised that such a global organisation was still operating in a traditional on-site, cellular manner. The project involved participants from several different European countries in a series of creative design sessions. Solutions included: Cubics: A modular range of meeting spaces, from individual ‘phone booths’ to four-to-six-person hangouts. The Cubics can be installed individually or as a group in larger spaces. Shelters: A micro-architecture work and meeting space solution, including indoor and outdoor models, designed to give people a sense of privacy and safety while transitioning to a more activity-based work model Biophilia: Gardens and outdoor spaces where people can relax, unwind, gather for events or collaborate on projects.
Left KCL K+ Experimental Space ECB WorkSpirit Design Jam KCL K+ Experimental Space Below ECB WorkSpirit Cubics
“Spending money on the things that students can touch, can feel, can tast, will yeil the greatest return”
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