AUT

AUT’s library refurbishment within the WA building involved a complete reimaging of what the space could offer to the students.

The brief was motivated by an aim on quiet, yet relaxed focus along with a mix of soft break out areas, smart lockers and touchdown benches to cater to all subjects being studied.

The first solution that needed to be addressed was individual concentration lighting within the Retreat pods; Across the floor, VIDAK supplied multiple formats including single, double, triple & zig zag shapes. Totalling 73 individual positions, each pod came with its own sensor driven LED installed into an additional shelf designed by VIDAK with hardware provided by lighting designers KKDC. This omitted the need to manually switch lights or lamps on / off as well as being left on unnecessarily at any given time, making them more energy conscious and efficient.

 Vecos Smart lockers allow students and visitors to the library to dynamically select and utilise the space far more efficiently. Either using the control panel or the ReleezeMe phone app, they can book a locker on site for a set period of to reduce the risk of ‘claiming’ for more time than is required. The design of the lockers at 1000mm high, also helped create more of an open environment by not obstructing the soft seating collaboration booths behind them.

The use of brighter and more unique patterned fabrics on the Elements soft seating was a stark contrast to the muted fabrics of the Retreat pods. These varying ‘pop’s’ of colour brought more life and vibrancy to the perimeter of the main study areas and would allow guests to work comfortably at one of the tables readily available.