Download Adam Smith Lecture Theatre

Boyd Orr Lecture Theatre 1
Boyd Orr Building
University Avenue, Glasgow
Refurbishment Project
August 2009
crgp limited – architects
Estates & Buildings – Project Services
The Project
Lecture Theatre 1 in the Boyd Orr Building has the largest seating capacity of all the University of Glasgow’s
lecture theatres and the facility is much in demand for a wide range of lectures and events for both students and
on occasions the general public.
While the information technology systems within the lecture theatre had been updated over the years the
interior finishes had not. The lecture theatre was showing its age!
The refurbishment provided the opportunity not only to install the latest information technology and improve the
pedagogical flexibility of use but also to create a new contemporary identity for the space.
Furthermore, the refurbishment allowed for updating the lecture theatres existing fire strategy by the inclusion of
an additional protective lobby.
Also recommended was a wheelchair refuge space and call point.
Introduction
Design Approach
The heavy concrete constructional form of the Boyd Orr Building precluded any significant alteration to the
configuration of the lecture theatre other than removing the outmoded rear projection room.
The excellent acoustics of the original lecture theatre have been retained by the use of perforated wallboards
which, in addition to the sound control qualities, give the wall a pattern and texture that contributes towards the
contemporary ambience of the refurbished theatre.
The free flowing form of the
original
suspended
three
dimensional ceiling has been
retained and its form enhanced
by the use of a restrained colour
difference between walls and
ceiling and the retained shadow
gap.
The University is constantly
seeking ways that allow flexibility
of use and, as a consequence,
increase
utilisation.
The
potential for interactive group
working, pioneered at the recent
Adam Smith lecture theatre
refurbishment,
has
been
replicated at the Boyd Orr
Building.
Fig.1 - Seating arrangement
Introduction
Environmental Systems
The performance of the existing heating and ventilation
system was optimised by carrying out a comprehensive
overhaul coupled with adjustments to the control systems
to maximise performance.
Secondary glazing was fitted to the two side windows to
reduce heat loss and improve acoustics. Black out blinds
were fitted. The opportunity was taken to display the logo
of the University of Glasgow on these blinds to badge the
theatre particularly as many of the users are from out with
the University.
Fig. 2 - Visualisation of lecture theatre & proposed blackout blinds
Introduction
Audio Visual Facilities
The lecture theatre is equipped with two number column boards with vertical sliding white board writing surfaces
and with wall mounted projection screens behind served by ceiling mounted projectors.
A third column board is positioned adjacent to the Teaching Table to provide a writing surface for use when the
projection facility is in use.
Two monitor screens are provided to relay the projector output to assist those seated at the rear of the theatre.
All the audio visual and information technology software within the lecture theatre is controlled from the teaching
desk as are the variable scene setting lighting controls.
The theatre is equipped with infrared hearing assistance and WI-FI technology
Fig.3 - Arrangement of screens and whiteboards at front of lecture theatre.
Fig.4 - Visualisation at front of lecture theatre
Introduction
Capacity and Flexibility
The refurbished lecture theatre has a seating capacity of 306. Dual directional seats for 22 persons result in
54 persons having the potential to work in groups. Data and power links provide the facility for these groups to
interact with the lecture theatre audio visuals facilities.
Seating for two ambulant disabled persons and
one wheelchair user are provided.
The teaching table or lectern which houses the
controls for the audio visual systems within the
lecture theatre has a height variable control
which allows the table to be adjusted to suit the
working height of a seated or standing lecturer.
The teaching table also accommodates the
scene setting lighting controls which allows
lighting levels to be varied to suite the event
being staged.
Fig.5 - Proposed Teaching Lectern
Introduction
Finishes
The pallet of finishes selected for the lecture theatre was purposely chosen for impact and, just as importantly,
for ease of maintenance and replacement. The lecture theatre will receive heavy and robust usage and must be
able to be “freshened up” at minimum costs.
The University of Glasgow corporate blue has been the basis of colour selection for the interior walls, floor and
seating.
The regular pattern of the perforated wall boarding has been contrasted by the random blue colour shade
variation in the upholstery of the seating. This approach to the colour of the seating will assist with the inevitable
piecemeal repair or replacement.
Fig.6 - Teaching Wall - Prior to Works
Fig.7 - Teaching Wall – After Refurbishment
Finishes (cont’d)
The simply painted blue/grey
colour of the walls emphasis the
free form nature of the plain white
painted “floating” ceiling.
The floor covering comprises short
pile lightly patterned dark blue
carpet tiles selected for mobility
and ease of replacement.
Light oak has been adopted for all
internal joinery and the writing
ledges. This understated timber
harmonises with the strong blue
tones of the theatre’s other
finishes.
The before and after photographs
illustrate the major transformation
that has taken place and the
dynamism and vigour that has
been introduced to the refurbished
Boyd Orr Lecture Theatre 1.
Fig. 8 & 9 - Boyd Orr Lecture Theatre 1 - Prior to Works Commencing
Fig.10 & 11 - Boyd Orr Lecture Theatre 1 – Refurbished Lecture Theatre