Taking a collaborative approach to learning
If ever you were inconvenienced from the construction of the NeW University on Hunter St it’s fair to say, having taken a tour of all eight storeys, that it was worth every stop-and-go moment.
The building, as we’ve seen throughout its progress, is spectacular from the outside. Step inside and NeW Space exceeds all expectations, from the innovative teaching facilities and state-of-the-art technology, to the thoughtfully crafted design that pays tribute to the lands previous owners, the interpretative pattern of the eaglehawk is truly beautiful, as much as the existing landmarks it now neighbours. Then there are those views!
UON Senior Project Officer, Damian Burke said “Some of the big objectives of the University were to make the building feel more a part of the community, which is why it is so open and transparent. There were a few design challenges that we had to be overcome to achieve this, but the idea was always that the building is really just as much for the students as it is for the public.”
Melbourne’s Lyons Architecture and Newcastle based firm EJE Architecture were given the monumental task of delivering the design concept, a partnership that continued from the initial design unveiling in March 2014 right through to its completion.
In addition to community engagement the building’s other focus is on creating on collaborative and flexible learning environment. With over 20 dedicated teaching and learning spaces that include the Immersive and Interactive Theatre to the Mock Boardroom and the Moot Court for law students to gain real life court experience.
The teaching rooms are as equally collaborative with moveable furniture enabling group sizes to change and mingle and tiered seating spaces to encourage discussion and that all important collaboration.
In addition to the learning spaces there is equally as many social spaces for students to break out into. Located across all eight floors, there’s no hierarchy at NeW Space, students can soak up some of Newcastle’s most spectacular of views whilst having their lunch.
Green space wasn’t forgotten with some enormous palm trees surrounding the grassy area that will make for perfect meeting in the warmer months. When the weather warms out there’s plenty of green space for both students and the public can sit and just enjoy the surrounds.