O’Donnell and Tuomey’s University Architecture: Informal Learning Spaces that Enhance User Engagement

Abstract Evolved design theories of student learning are impacting the built environment of universities. Regardless of a move away from traditional lecture theaters toward online learning, the presence of social learning spaces that aim to facilitate student engagement and collaboration is becoming increasingly important to universities who are trying to attract students in a competitive neoliberal marketplace. This paper examines the prevalence of informal learning spaces that encourage social interaction within three university buildings designed by acclaimed Irish architects O’Donnell and Tuomey: the Saw Swee Hock Student Center at the London School of Economics (LSE); Budapest’s Central European University (CEU) redevelopment and; the Hub Project at University College Cork (UCC). Through similarities in relation to views, connections, permeability, and the provision of informal learning spaces, the O’Donnell and Tuomey university buildings demonstrate the ability to encourage social interaction and connection to the public realm.