Napier Edinburgh
Richard Murphy Architects
The Jack Kilby Centre, Napier University, Merchiston, 1999-2001
Napier University, Merchiston: images by Richard Murphy Architects & Adrian Welch
This project for Napier University involving a new Computer Centre (& Engineering Laboratory Refurbishment) was completed in Summer 2001. The Client required provision of a 24-hour access computer centre within its existing campus buildings at Merchiston. This project with no real external facade centralises 500 workstations and provides support space together with ancillary accommodation.
Napier University, Merchiston: images by Richard Murphy Architects
The new centre is intrinsically linked to the existing university buildings which surround it, although a separate entrance gives both open access to students 24 hours a day and provides a separate visually-identifiable presence. Richard Murphy Architects elected to subdivide into a matrix of 5 x 4 bays defined laterally by five parallel barrel vaults and longitudinally by a stepped 'hillside' of four terraces. A tartan grid of circulation weaves its way between, under valley gutters in one direction and vaults of light in the other.
Napier University, Merchiston: images by Richard Murphy Architects
The whole is supported on clusters of columns and the entire composition is surrounded by light from hidden perimeter roof lights where there are also ramped access routes. The vaults themselves are lit from the sides by sunlight reflected upwards so that sunlight doesn't fall onto computer screens. Placed centrally within the matrix is the main support desk, providing them with both a commanding overall view of the facility and also of the main entrances.
Napier University, Merchiston: images by Adrian Welch
Jack Kilby Centre - approx. build cost: £5.3m
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Jack Kilby Computer Centre, Napier University, was one of eight buildings in Scotland winning RIBA Awards in 2003