sanaa rolex office plan dimension | Rolex Learning Centre

The Rolex Learning Center, designed by the internationally acclaimed Japanese architectural practice SANAA (Sejima and Nishizawa and Associates), is not just a building; it's a statement. Located on the campus of the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in Lausanne, Switzerland, this architectural marvel represents a radical departure from traditional academic building design. Its fluid, organic form and innovative use of space have captivated architects, students, and the public alike. Understanding the SANAA Rolex Office Plan Dimension is crucial to appreciating the building's brilliance. This article delves into the key design elements, spatial organization, and overall impact of this groundbreaking structure, drawing upon insights from various perspectives and resources.

Context: The EPFL and the Need for Innovation

Before diving into the specifics of the Rolex Learning Center's dimensions and plan, it's important to understand its context. The EPFL, a leading science and technology university, sought a building that would reflect its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and interdisciplinary learning. The existing campus, while functional, lacked a central hub that fostered interaction and a sense of community. SANAA's design directly addressed this need, creating a vibrant and dynamic space that encourages spontaneous encounters and collaborative learning.

SANAA's Vision: Fluidity and Connectivity

SANAA's design philosophy centers around creating spaces that are open, transparent, and adaptable. They prioritize blurring the boundaries between inside and outside, and between different functional areas. The Rolex Learning Center embodies these principles perfectly. The building's most striking feature is its undulating, continuous surface, which creates a series of interconnected interior spaces. This organic form rejects the traditional compartmentalization of academic buildings, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.

Understanding the Plan Dimension: Breaking Down the Complexity

While the Rolex Learning Center appears seamlessly fluid, a careful examination of its plan reveals a complex and meticulously designed spatial organization.

* The Single Sheet Concept: One of the key concepts behind the design is the idea of a single, continuous sheet of concrete that has been manipulated to create the building's form. This "sheet" is punctuated by a series of patios, or internal courtyards, which bring natural light and ventilation into the heart of the building.

* Undulating Floor and Ceiling: The floor and ceiling surfaces are not flat but rather gently undulate, creating a variety of spatial experiences. These undulations define different zones within the building, subtly separating areas for quiet study, collaborative work, and social interaction. The variations in height also contribute to the building's acoustic properties, helping to manage noise levels in the large, open spaces.

* Patios as Focal Points: The patios are strategically positioned to create visual connections throughout the building. They act as focal points, orienting users and providing glimpses into different activities. These outdoor spaces also offer a respite from the interior environment, allowing students and researchers to connect with nature.

* The Libraries: The library collections are integrated throughout the building, rather than being confined to a single, dedicated space. This encourages browsing and discovery, and makes the library resources more accessible to users. The books are shelved on low, mobile units, which can be easily reconfigured to create different layouts.

* The Central Agora: At the heart of the building lies the agora, a large, open space that serves as a central meeting point and event venue. This flexible space can be used for lectures, conferences, exhibitions, and social gatherings. The agora is designed to be highly adaptable, with movable furniture and partitions that can be configured to suit different needs.

* The "Holes" and the Landscape: The “holes,” or sunken patios, are a crucial part of the design. These are not just voids; they are carefully landscaped areas that bring greenery into the heart of the building. They also provide natural light and ventilation to the lower levels, creating a more pleasant and sustainable environment.

Key Dimensions and Spatial Relationships:

While precise dimensions are not always publicly available, we can understand the scale and relationships of spaces within the Rolex Learning Center:sanaa rolex office plan dimension

* Overall Footprint: The building covers a substantial area, approximately 20,000 square meters (215,000 square feet). This large footprint allows for the creation of the expansive, interconnected interior spaces that characterize the design.

* Patios: The patios vary in size and shape, but they are generally large enough to accommodate trees, seating areas, and other landscape features. Their dimensions are carefully considered to maximize natural light penetration and create a sense of enclosure.

* Agora: The central agora is a significant space, capable of accommodating hundreds of people. Its dimensions are designed to allow for a variety of activities, from large-scale lectures to intimate gatherings.

* Undulating Surfaces: The undulations in the floor and ceiling surfaces vary in height, creating a dynamic spatial experience. The changes in elevation are subtle enough to be easily navigable, but significant enough to define different zones within the building.

The Role of Natural Light and Ventilation:

The Rolex Learning Center is designed to maximize natural light and ventilation, reducing its reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning. The patios and the large glazed facades allow ample daylight to penetrate the interior spaces. The undulating roof incorporates skylights that further enhance the natural lighting. The building also incorporates a sophisticated ventilation system that utilizes natural airflows to regulate temperature and humidity.