CASE STUDY
University of Birmingham
After conducting a feasibility study, the University of Birmingham realized that their existing library building, which dates back to the 1950s, could not be refurbished. The university is committed to providing its students and researchers with state-of-the-art learning facilities.
University of Birmingham
what products were included?
PLUTO
PIXELTUF
PHASE
On/in desk power unit. CLICK HERE for more information.
Under/on desk power unit. CLICK HERE for more information.
about this project
The decision was made to build a brand new library that would sit in the center of the campus, and the existing library would be demolished to form part of a new open space concept.
The result is a 55,000sf building that is “tailor-made to suit modern users’ needs and houses a variety of learning spaces to cater for different modes of study” according to the university website.
A key part of the design brief was technology. The university required power to be available for each student. Working with furniture supplier Broadstock and furniture manufacturer Orangebox, OE was able to offer a broad array of power options for the library.
The study areas include OE’s PIXELTUF and PLUTO power units placed directly into the desktops. In the atrium and open spaces, more casual soft-seating was used. Each student has access to a mix of standard power sockets and USB charging outlets.
“My expectations have just been blown away…as you look around you see students using all of the different spaces, working together and working individually…I couldn’t have asked for more”
Diane Job, Director of Library Services
