Computer Lab Redesign

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  Individual computer stations: 360 degree adjustable monitors attached to partitions to increase desk real-estate

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  Group computer stations: Frosted glass walls provides superior noise reduction and gives the ability to write on both sides.

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  Lounge 1: Comfortable sofas and a TV monitor for relaxation (gaming and food)

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  Lounge 2: Flexible space for studying or food

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  Lounge 3: Standing tables overlooking University of Calgary (food allowed)

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  MS 176: Retractable frosted glass walls can be opened up to increase study space when class is not in session

Inspiration

We made a survey with over 74 respondents with the goal of understanding the needs of computer science students.

[Survey Overview]

• 60% of the participants stated that the current desk space is large enough
• 68% of the participants wanted more space for their devices
• 70% of the participants expressed their desire to eat a quick meal inside the lab
• 57% of the participants wanted better water fountains (the one for filling up water bottles)
• Participants also indicated the importance of whiteboards and comfortable seating

Our inspirations came from the original blueprint itself. We came to the conclusion that the current floor plan is quite efficient. Additionally, the separation of the two sections from the placement of classrooms in the middle allowed for a natural noise reduction on the two sides. From this, we decided to focus one section on individual work and use the other section for group work.

What We Did

[Overview]

• Single level tables
• Frosted glass pods with the ability to write on the walls
• Three relaxing lounges for a quick meal and relaxation
• Retractable glass walls with the ability to write on both sides

Desire for Desk Space | Figure 1

• We attached the 360 degree adjustable monitors to the partitions in order to free up desk real-estate.
• We removed the awkward "double level" tables, but kept the overall table size the same. Thus, allowing more room for students' own devices.

Student Oriented Group Spaces | Figure 2

• We separated the floorplan into two sections. One section is focused on individual work with two monitors and partitions separating each computer stations. The other section was further divided into separate pods to reduce noise with a focus on group work.
• The group work area will have no partitions separating each computer stations, thus making it easier to work with their own devices or as a team.
• Both sections contain thick acrylic glass walls providing superior noise reduction and can be treated as whiteboards. Of course, dozens of whiteboards are also implemented along the stone-paved walls.

Food Compatible Areas | Figures 3-5

• We allocated three relaxing lounges for students to eat a quick meal
• Amenities include: windows and standing tables overlooking the University of Calgary, soft sofas with coffee tables, TV monitor with the ability to plug in their recreational devices.

Accessibility

• We used sliding doors for both sections in order to improve accessibility for all individuals
• We utilized retractable glass walls for classrooms with the ability to write from both sides. The walls can be retracted if no class is in section, enlarging the computer lab space.
• Lastly, all chairs has wheels on them to assist with movement during group work.

What We Used

We utilized Adobe Photosohp and Paint.NET to create the materials and textures used in the models. The model itself is designed using Autodesk Revit with inspiration from the original floorplan. We used A360's cloud engine to render the photorealistic renderings and panoramas.

Our Wishes

We hope the survey results and the renderings will prove to be a valuable asset in evaluating the redesign of the computer science lab. We believe surveys are a great way for Architects to get a feel of the students' needs. Feel free to contact us for more perspectives or additional renderings.

Built With

• a360
• autodesk-revit
• paint.net
• photoshop