Architecture & Lighting Lab
For this pro-bono project, I had the privilege of collaborating with a talented team of designers to reimagine and transform an architecture classroom and the adjacent lighting and materials laboratory. Both spaces had grown outdated and were long overdue for an upgrade. Our team worked closely with the chairman of the organization, who preferred to remain anonymous, to bring his vision to life. He envisioned a high-tech, contemporary design that not only featured a sleek finishes but also prioritized accessibility and functionality.
The Classroom
The classroom was outdated and lacked flexibility, making it difficult to foster a dynamic and engaging learning environment. To address this, my team and I replaced the traditional rows of desks with modern, rounded tables designed to promote collaboration and interaction among students. This arrangement not only encouraged group work but also created a more inclusive and versatile space.
At the client’s request, we incorporated inset tablets into each table, ensuring that all students had access to digital course materials and could actively participate in lessons. This technology integration streamlined the learning process and elevated the classroom to meet contemporary educational standards.
Additionally, we replaced the outdated projector with a cutting-edge smart board, offering advanced interactivity and enhanced teaching capabilities. To further support creativity and showcase student projects, we installed pin boards along the walls, providing a dedicated space for displaying work and encouraging peer-to-peer feedback.
These thoughtful updates transformed the classroom into a high-tech, collaborative hub that inspires both students and educators.
The Laboratory
The laboratory posed a unique challenge, as it needed to serve multiple purposes: functioning as a lighting lab, a materials storage unit, and a versatile space for hosting meetings and events. Balancing these diverse requirements while maintaining the modern, sleek design aesthetic of the adjacent classroom required careful planning and creativity.
To address the need for materials storage and display, we incorporated custom-designed units that were both practical and visually appealing. Low-rise storage solutions allowed for easy access to materials without overwhelming the space, while a single tall cabinet was strategically included to accommodate specialized lighting experiments. This ensured that all functional needs were met without compromising the clean, streamlined look.
For meetings and events, we introduced modular furniture, including adaptable conference tables that could be easily reconfigured or stowed away to maximize flexibility. This approach ensured the lab could transition seamlessly between different uses, from hands-on lighting demonstrations to collaborative discussions and formal gatherings.
We prioritized cohesiveness by extending the design language of the classroom into the lab, emphasizing mobility, versatility, and sleek finishes. The result is a dynamic, multipurpose laboratory that supports creativity, functionality, and collaboration while aligning perfectly with the overall design vision.