Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design

Oberlanders have completed a bold contemporary ‘glass box’ extension providing a new front entrance to the College on Perth Road.

The existing entrance, located in the neighbouring Crawford Building, had significant disabled access issues. The adjoining Matthew Building, although fronted by a service yard at ground level, had an existing internal lift and stair core extending to street level.

Oberlanders identified that the provision of a new entrance block in this building would deliver a fully accessible entrance, with minimal disruption, as well as providing significant opportunities to greatly improve the public realm and streetscape to Perth Road.
The new entrance block completes the massing of the existing 1973 Matthew Building and provides a striking, translucent space

which complements the solid concrete mass of the original block. The new entrance block allows the original building façade to be removed at the lower levels, revealing and rejuvenating an original entrance hall which comprises a dynamic sequence of interconnected spaces, and an imposing feature concrete stair. The double and triple height volumes of the new entrance block showcase the original concrete structure, and provide a series of naturally lit spaces, spread out over two levels, that can be used as flexible meeting, exhibition and display spaces.

A new external plaza is formed in front of the building, extending to street level, and providing level access to the building. The external landscape comprises robust concrete and brick faced retaining walls, to complement the existing buildings, together with paved surfaces and soft landscaped areas. A cascade of new external steps links the new streetscape with the existing Hawkhill Lane pedestrian vennel above, providing an informal meeting and gathering space.