Page 19 - spaces4learning, Spring 2023

enabled the team to add insulation to the building’s existing walls and prevent moisture condensation that could have caused deterioration and health hazards.
January Hall’s original slate roof had also reached the end of its useful life. In the process of replacing it, insulation was added
only features of January Hall that needed to be upgraded. To better facilitate active learning, Trivers transformed an old lec- ture hall into a modern, flexible space integrated with the latest technology.
The sloped lecture hall was built during a time when didactic teaching was the preferred method of presenting information to students. The physical constraints of environments like this—rows of seats that only face forward, a lack of collaborative space, a shortage of technology, inability to project sound from the audience—make it extremely difficult to achieve active learning, which we now
to save energy, control air leakage of the building comfortable throughout the seasons.
A new mechanical system was added, too. It includes fan coil units with dedicated outside air units and energy recovery wheels. By recovering energy from the exhaust air, the system boosts energy efficiency while offering a high level of control for the building’s occupants.
Finally, the construction
materials and finishes for the
renovation project were carefully
selected based on prioritizing environmental reporting, material sourcing, and healthier materials and furniture.
Creating Flexible
Learning Environments
The windows, walls, roof, and mechanical system were not the
and make the temperature
THIS PROJECT REQUIRED THE TEAM TO BALANCE TWO NEEDS: PRESERVING THE HERITAGE OF THE BUILDING AND UPGRADING ITS ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE.
know helps students learn best. The first step Trivers took in developing a flexible learning environment was infilling the floor to create a flat surface. This allowed for the installation of moveable furniture and high-tech tools that encourage interaction among
students and instructors, specifically:
• Ten reconfigurable tables and wheeled chairs for up to 60
students, which can easily form groups of two, three, four or six. • A large monitor, wireless presentation software and outlets
at each pod.
spaces4learning.com | SPRING 2023 19