The Guidelines

Design-related

Physical

• Plan for flexibility

  Understand the hierarchy of layers that makes up any building from those things that set the context for other design decisions and, once decided, are difficult to change, to those that within the framework already set, are relatively free to change.

• Concentrate first and foremost on general configuration

  But also ensure that the environmental control system permits sub-division or at least zoning into relatively small areas for different heating/venting/cooling and acoustic atmospheres.

• Cable distribution and a good HVAC system are probably the best way of maintaining flexibility and "future proofing" the building so:
  • HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) systems require to be "fit for purpose" - do not compromise on them. If developing a passive/sustainable system look carefully at what this means for maintaining flexibility.
  • Work as much as possible on the principle of local control even when this might compromise overall efficiency.
  • Insist on an excellent data/telecoms infrastructure; "flood wiring" and a comprehensive data distribution and cable management system even where providing a wireless infrastructure.
  • Floor boxes, set within a raised computer floor, are managerially inadequate, but are currently "the best of a bad job". Do not be lulled into thinking that they solve the problem of flexibility and cable distribution. Recognise that they are actually difficult to move and position appropriately and that where they can be conveniently supplemented with skirting or dado trunking, this should be done. Where careful space planning can obviate the need for a general sprinkling of floor boxes, make use of this instead.
• Some design decisions have to be thought of in terms of an operational regime.

  For example where envisaging the use of laptops, develop a system for laptop charging and/or storage.

• Develop a strategy for "zoning".

  This might be in terms of building elements or best use of furniture and fittings, in which case there will need to be a strategy of "hard" and "soft" fixes: a hierarchy of fit-out elements that can be more or less easily moved or changed. In general keep building elements physically separate, not built into or dependent upon one another - ie smart-boards built into a wall essentially fix that wall.

• Definition of building zones can involve walls, partitions, changes in materials, and use of graphics

  Each will have a greater or lesser effect on flexibility and modification of the acoustic or climatic internal environment. Be clear on the degree of change that is anticipated and the degree of fixity that is therefore desirable.

• Use furniture and half-height partitions to best effect

  In general partial separation, which relies on modulating noise, rather than isolating it, will provide greater flexibility than full height walls.

• Understand furniture in terms of its ability to accommodate cable distribution and its role of half-height partitioning

  Although recognise that, used in this way, furniture will become more fixed.

• Provide visual hierarchy

  Furniture can solve many operational problems but only by being set within a clear architectural context.

Psychological

• Provide variety, choice and variability – in lighting, acoustic environment and general ambience. Different types of space give the opportunity for different types of colonisation, naturally and in response to new organisational pressures.
• Immediate visual impact is important, setting the style of the facility overall with graphics, colour and sound, but "wow" or "oomph" factor should not be allowed to subvert more basic provisions flexibility and usability.
• Creating a wide range of 'microenvironments' plays to the multiple intelligences and variety of learning styles of learners.