University Centre

The new building is a library and study centre and it forms the new main campus entrance to Farnborough College of Technology. The brief called for a striking building that would enhance the visibility of the College, creating a more immediate link between the academic College and the immediate community around it.

The design concept exploits the diagonal route from the main direction of approach in the corner of the site, through to the start of the existing pedestrian spine. This is dramatised by dividing the building into two opposing ‘slices of cake’, with the roof-lit diagonal route mediating between them.

A dramatic ‘prow’ extends towards the approach route from the north, guiding the eye towards the main entrances and protecting a paved entrance plaza. A similar, smaller prow on the south side protects an outdoor seating area next to the café. The building is clad in very pale textured brickwork, with vertical dark fins establishing a rhythm along the long east and west elevations.