Design Studio 10
College of Architecture and Design SHC
A college that carries on the flow of the wadi and the journey of the people in the campus within the structure of the building. Carefully crafted stairs that allow view of the wadi throughout the building link the art and science with the philosophy of design. Science represents the structure, while art represents humanity.
The institution is situated in Sultan Haitham City's university campus, which is one of the newest and up coming development project in the Sultanate of Oman. The project is situated in the nicest area of the university as it features a sizable wadi park next to it and a micro mobility corridor that will increase foot circulation within the college.
The college has six levels (GF + 5). All of the workshops, as well as the display zone and administration, are on the ground floor. The first level is the student promenade level, which has huge collaboration areas and a canteen where students may socialize as they desire, and it is immediately connected to the wadi. The academy begins on the second floor and continues beyond. The Architecture department has two levels, followed by two floors of the Design department, which includes Interior Design, Product Design, and Fashion Design. Each of these divisions has its own specialized lab and support facilities.
A new modular studio and classroom arrangement is introduced in the design of the college, that integrates the academic and practical aspects of design education. As a result, the studios feature double volume spaces with lots of natural light coming in from the north. These studios are immediately connected to the classrooms by internal staircases. Every department has a double volume critique zone as well.
The heart of the project, the steps begin at the wadi level and lead into the building, passing through each floor. They serve as a gathering spot for students from many departments and literally connect all the practices within the college. An amphitheater is also attached to the steps, offering a wonderful view over the wadi.