Informal Learning Spaces - University of Manitoba

In 2021, the University undertook an initiative to provide informal learning spaces throughout campus as a reaction to a growing student population and a need for breakout spaces in which students could congregate in. Designing flexibility and variety into these spaces was a key strategy to help support the student body. Since most of these informal learning spaces are situated along paths of travel, limiting the movement of loose furniture was a key concern in terms of egress and life safety. Additionally, detailing and specifying robust materials that would withstand the wear and tear of daily student use was a major driving factor in the overall design of the spaces. The science building informal learning space focused on the development of a series of banquettes, bar-height and seated height counters for perching and sitting. Power and data were integrated into all components to ensure the space supports the needs of students. New lighting, flooring finishes and wall finishes were also provided to help delineate the new space from the remainder of the corridor and building. The development of the library vestibule was more strategic as the space is accessed from service tunnels, the main library entrance, and the adjacent Faculty of Arts building. Stadium-style benching became the focus for this informal learning space as it affords the students a variety of options in terms of sitting, focusing and gathering. Additionally, providing fixed seating with cushions ensures that loose furniture won’t obstruct the paths of travel. A double-sided counter was detailed to allow for perching on one side, with a seated area on the other side. A wood wall panel system was applied to the back wall and ceiling to help define the space from the rest of the thoroughfare and helps to create a focal point within the space. Client: University of Manitoba Architectural & Engineering Services / Faculty of Science, Elizabeth Dafoe Library Type: Interior Design Construction Value: Parker $165,000 / Dafoe $190,000 Date of Completion: September 2022 Classroom Area: Varies Consultant Team Prime Consultant: 1x1 architecture inc. Architecture / Interior Design: 1x1 architecture inc. Structural: KGS Group Mechanical: KGS Group Electrical: KGS Group Environmental: Tesseract Environmental Consulting Inc. Photography: Lisa Stinner-Kun Filed under Educational Institutional Interior Design