Last Thursday we were given a tour around the newly completed Learning Resource Centre at Hymers College in Hull.
The centre is a flexible, adaptable technology-rich learning environment positioned at the heart of the school, with space for open-plan learning, a café and a multi-function hall housed within the old gymnasium. After working on the scheme for over 2 years, it felt very special to see the library space buzzing with activity and being used by the students in all the ways we envisaged.
The old gymnasium was a starting point for the design. After initial discussions with students and staff, current and former, it was clear that the gym had much sentimental value and from our perspective it was a beautiful space which would be a shame to demolish. So it quite quickly became obvious to us that we needed to preserve the space and transform it into a destination in its own right.
The old gymnasium, before and after refurbishment
Adjoining the old gymnasium we’ve created large open plan spaces which are connected vertically at each end of the building with a dramatic triple height atrium at the centre facing the quad. I particularly love how the coloured glass wall of the atrium softly reflects the Grade II listed building opposite, referencing the rhythm of the original façade.
Reflections of the Grade II Listed building in the new LRC (photo courtesy of Hymers College)
A very satisfying addition to our portfolio of schemes for an excellent, forward-thinking client.
Tom Rhys Jones and Headteacher David Elstone enjoying the atmosphere in the new LRC