Educatorium

Utrecht University, Netherlands
1995-1998
110,000 sf
OMA / Christophe Cornubert, Richard Eelman, Michel Melenhorst, Jacques Vink, Gaudi Hoedaya
Structural – ABT Delft, Rob Nijsse
MEP – IBL Amsterdam, Henk Knipscheer

Designed by Christophe Cornubert while a partner with OMA, the Educatorium is a 110,000 square foot facility encompassing two large auditoria with 500 and 400 seats, a 1000 seat cafeteria, examination halls and classrooms, foyer, lounges, and parking for 1000 bicycles.

A central feature in the new masterplan and revitalization program for Utrecht University, the Educatorium creates a new social and academic point of exchange. Generous open spaces create a continuous interior experience where the varied activities and users mingle and interact.

“A large number of people make use of the Educatorium every day. A wide range of spaces, shapes, finishings and vistas ensures different sensations every time. The spatial complexity is combined with organizational clarity.”

The project, completed in 1998, received the prestigious Rietveld Prize in Architecture, and is a national showcase for sustainable building concepts.