Inspired by our expansion and renovation of the Los Angeles Central Library, the University of Otago engaged us to develop a student precinct master plan for the campus, and to plan, program and design the University’s new Information Services Building (ISB) and an addition to the existing student union. The ISB incorporates the University’s existing main library, while housing new media facilities, instructional technologies, electronic classrooms, computer clusters, group study rooms, library collection storage and staff areas. As sustainability played a critical role in the project’s evolution, the building elevations were designed for specific conditions of solar orientation and elemental forces. A natural ventilation system is coordinated with the mechanical systems by automated fenestrations, and the multi-level mezzanine provides a stack affect that moves air through the facility.

Project Data

Completed
2000 (phase I); 2001 (phase II)

Program & Highlights

Multimedia facilities
Group study rooms
Smart classrooms
Café

Collaborators

NZ Architect: Opus International Consultants Ltd.
Contractor: Naylor Love
Project Manager: OCTA Associates Ltd.
Structural Engineer: Hadley & Robinson
Mechanical/Electrical: Arup & Partners
Photographer: John Gollings