A State-Of-The-Art Learning and Teaching Hub for Glasgow
The University of Glasgow’s new ￡72 million James McCune Smith Building is a highly sustainable BREEAM? Excellent facility designed to create a signature gateway in the heart of a conservation area.
Designed by HLM Architects, the aims were to create a modern yet timeless and harmonious look. A creative industrial design with exposed services and raw materials, to reinforce the student culture, with warm materials including timber created a sense of comfort and a ‘home from home’ feeling with a collaborative atmosphere.
Modern Learning Environment
The choice of Knauf Ceiling Solutions materials was vital for the design in helping define the different student spaces and ensure optimum sound absorption. HERADESIGN? Baffle Elements were used in the learning spaces and corridors and MINERAL Sonic Element ceiling canopies were installed in the open plan circulation areas.
MINERAL Sonic Elements are frameless and jointless ceiling canopies which feature patented strong edge technology and benefit from fully colour coated face and reverse laminate fleece. This product range is valued by specifiers for its low weight, easy handling, durability, excellent humidity resistance and sound absorption performance.
“The James McCune Smith Building project has been very interesting to be part of, specifically due to the various different types of ceilings chosen to help create diverse learning spaces and deliver a state-of-the-art space. All those involved in the project are immensely proud of the part they have played in bringing this stunning facility to life.”
Andrew Shankland / Linear Projects
Creating a Work of Contemporary Art
Venetian graffiti artist, Peeta, spray painted a futuristic mural onto a canvas of HERADESIGN? Creative Wall Panels, which features on the inside of the glass fa?ade. Manufactured from robust sustainable materials, this highly resistant wood wool product can be matched to any interior colour scheme and be fixed or suspended in a wide selection of shapes, face patterns, edge details and sizes.
The building won the Education Award at the Glasgow Institute of Architects (GIA) Awards and Project of the Year at the Learning Places Scotland Awards 2021.