Projects
National Archives
Overview
Client - The National Archives
Designer - AOC Architecture
The National Archives' Learning Rooms 1 and 2, situated within the verdant grounds of Kew Gardens, were thoughtfully installed during the COVID-19 period by RIB Contracts. These purpose-built spaces serve as a modern and inspiring environment for study, education, and exploration of historical records.
Featuring architectural ingenuity, the design incorporates barrel-vaulted ceilings that give the rooms a spacious and airy quality while echoing a sense of historical grandeur befitting the National Archives.
Adaptability
A standout feature of the learning rooms is their backlit Barrisol ceilings, which provide a soft, evenly distributed light that enhances visibility without harsh glare. This lighting solution not only adds a contemporary touch to the rooms but also creates a calming atmosphere conducive to learning and concentration.
The innovative design ensures the rooms remain versatile for diverse educational uses, ranging from individual research to collaborative workshops.
Form and Function
Acoustic cladding is seamlessly integrated throughout the spaces to address the critical need for noise control. By effectively mitigating sound transfer to adjacent study areas, this feature preserves the tranquillity and focus essential in the archival environment. The attention to acoustic performance underscores the thoughtful planning behind these rooms, ensuring they balance aesthetic appeal, functionality, and the preservation of the serene ambiance of the National Archives' broader facilities.
