In the former TNO research building you imagined yourself in the world of CSI; long corridors with labs where secrecy was central. The closed building has been transformed into an open and inviting learning environment for 2,500 students of Fontys Technology & Innovation. Studio Groen + Schild, in collaboration with architects | en | en and EGM architects, made the design for the renovation and sustainability of the building. The long corridors have been opened up in strategic places by the removal of the inner walls. This has created space for learning plazas. These so-called Maker Spaces are the places where students meet and study together. The core of the interior design is connecting these learning squares. This is designed with a black steel frame, a ribbon, which is visible throughout the building. The frame offers the students the opportunity to communicate who they are and what they do. LED screens, pin boards, a bookcase and a real greenhouse reflect the identity of the different institutions. The meeting places of the three courses are literally linked by the ribbon. The heart of the education building is formed by the atrium. This space has been transformed into a dynamic open area with a number of Hogwarts-like stairs; the calling card of Fontys T&I. An inspiring place where students, teachers and visitors meet.
Photography: Bas Gijselhart | BASEPHOTOGRAPHY