Student Accommodation, Glyndwr University, Wrexham,Wales. xxxxxxxx'Competition Entry'

Competition entry for the design of 500 study bedrooms and associated student commune and service spaces

The aim of this competition was to develop ideas for new student accommodation that would fully exploit the positive attributes of the existing buildings and site infrastructure matrix, combining it with existing masterplan proposals for the University as a whole into an exciting forward looking development which would focus on the provision of well functioning study enclaves in a dual learning/socially focused environment, adhering to the University’s long term aspirations whilst setting a benchmark for future additions.

The forms of the buildings have been structured on a standardised module for the cost efficiencies of ease of construction and manufacture with the cluster blocks are arranged in ascending heights from south to north to afford each a separate identity. This identity is reinforced through the use of colour panels within the modular facades to reference individual study enclaves at each floor level. The tri-pod form of ‘cluster wheels’ is set against the skyline through the use of a ‘floating’ roof membrane as a giant ‘turnscrew’ which unifies the individual elements of each Cluster Block form. Shared internal courtyard areas shall be laid to grass for social use bounded by use of shrubbery as light screen to bedroom spaces. A definitive line of trees is proposed to accentuate the access road curve and soften this element through its route between new and old.