AU knows that students need places to work, collaborate, and unwind. Thats why the new buildings are being packed with flexible, accessible study zones. In fact, a guiding principle of the campus plan is that AU should have “a flexible study environment with many study places” and an active, cohesive student life.
So what does that look like on the ground? For starters, in the new University City facilities, group rooms and reading areas are primarily located on the ground floor or first floor of buildings – right where students can easily find and use them. No more hunting for a study room hidden on some obscure upper level. These group rooms are placed near classrooms and in convenient spots like corridor junctions and hallway “pockets,” which have been turned into “open, informal study zones.” Imagine nooks with benches, whiteboards, and outlets where you can huddle with your group, as well as alcoves with comfy seats for solo study.
The Round Audditorium
The new auditorium building 1790 (the round auditorium) will include student study
zones in connection with its cafe and around the big auditorium hall. That means when you have a
break between lectures, you won’t have to go far – you can study or relax right in the same building,
cappuccino in hand. Next door, building 1791 will house a bunch of classrooms and group rooms, and
at its ground floor there’ll be a café with an attached study area. So that’s another inviting space
to meet classmates or do homework, presumably with snacks readily available.
The Atriums
The architects also designed large atriums in the new buildings (building 1810+1830). These atriums serve as the main entrances to departments but double as big, informal study lounges. Kind of like the S building is know, but better. They’ll have tables, couches, and likely lots of natural light – perfect for both small-group work and just hanging out. This is great for hosting “smaller events”, so perhaps things like SLF or project showcases will happen there.
All these spaces are designed with flexibility in mind. AU’s strategy for the future includes supporting
modern teaching methods and educational IT, which means new classrooms might have moveable
furniture for group work, strong Wi-Fi and screens, and so on. As students, we’ll benefit from these
upgrades every day: more outlets for our devices, more spots to focus when we need quiet, and more
collaborative areas when we need to brainstorm. No need to fight over a single crowded reading room –
study spots will be dispersed all over campus.
We are so excited to explore these new study environments. There’s something motivating about a
fresh, well-designed space. Whether you prefer the hush of a reading room or the buzz of a cafe, Campus 2.0 is delivering options. And with the Parks and outdoor areas nearby (take your reading outside to the new green campus park on a sunny day, just like your traditional uni dream), studying at AU is about to become more enjoyable than ever. So get ready to find your new favorite study nook – there will be plenty to choose from!
