RIBA East Spirit of Ingenuity Architecture Award 2002

In association with EEDA Hatfield

College Lane Campus Learning Resources Centre University of Hertfordshire

A new build state of the art four-storey Learning Resources Centre

A 40 metre wide and 90 metre long rectangular footprint is covered by a shallow curved roof structure incorporating a barrel vaulted glass atrium which raises the full height of the three above ground and lower ground levels.

Clean bright interior surfaces and fittings are combined with an open plan floor layout to give the building a light and airy ambience. This is dramatically increased during daylight hours by natural light flooding into the building through the central glass atrium. Each of these elements has been carefully designed to dilute the effect of a high-density working environment.

A building of 'civic' quality and dignified presence, but which also has qualities of user-friendliness. Its structure is clear and economic but also elegant. The integration of services and structure is very well handled. The central top lit space is an atrium which opens up and integrates all spaces giving the building clarity and making it easy to understand and use. A well-designed, simple and effective building.

Architect: Architects Co-Partnership

About the award

The RIBA East Spirit of Ingenuity Architectural Awards celebrate the ingenuity and innovativeness of architects and architecture within the East of England region.