What Is Unique or Noteworthy?
A crucial aspect of the design process was the setting up of 13 user groups involving
frontline staff who had in-depth understanding of the practical space needs for their
own functions. For example, a group for the front desk design (see Figure 8) involved
the receptionist team, a group for the lectern design involved academics, and so on.
The cautious and protracted research into design options before hiring the
architects meant that the school had a very clear idea of the “spirit” wanted for the
new building. Once the architects listened to and locked on to what this spirit really
meant, they articulated that vision in elegant physical terms. The whole building
is based on principles of flexibility and transparency, reflecting the values of the
Sir John Cass Business School.