The new Franklin University Switzerland campus in Sorengo, Switzerland by Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Article source: Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Unveiled the design for the new campus at Franklin University Switzerland (FUS), Lugano, due for completion in spring 2022. An architecture, designed by Italian studio Flaviano Capriotti Architetti, that aims to share knowledge, experience and expertise: a space where students and the wider community can come together.

Franklin’s holistic approach to learning can be seen in the permeable architecture that is open to the urban context: acting as an evocative and distinctive new landmark and providing the community with public spaces. The facade of the building is a tribute to that quintessential symbol of knowledge: the book.

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

• Architects: Flaviano Capriotti Architetti
• Project: The new Franklin University Switzerland campus
• Location: Sorengo, Switzerland

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

The building is characterised by two distinct architectonic blocks which are linked by their different perspectives, with one being a communal and educational space and one designed for university accommodation. The public-use building stands out for its permeable architecture and, almost as if to assert the purpose of the building, semi-transparent surfaces hint at the interiors within and invite students and the wider community to discover and interact. A glowing light in the auditorium indicates activity within to the outside, turning the building into a dynamic space that speaks to the surrounding urban setting.

Designed as a shared space with communal functions, it stands like a beacon of light within the overall complex. Clad with an orientable system of white photovoltaic plates, which has been developed in collaboration with SUPSI (the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland) and its Department of Environment, Constructions and Design, the Franklin campus building features the first photovoltaic system in Europe to be fitted with components that follow the orientation of the sun. This mechanism makes the building more sustainable from an environmental point of view and simultaneously provides shading within the spaces, for greater thermal and visual comfort.

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

The university accommodation section rests on the main block. Its pigmented and patterned concrete surfaces evoke the colour and texture of the surrounding alpine landscape and at the same time guarantee greater privacy.

The finishing touch of the design is the campus gardens. Created by Hortensia Garden Design, they offer students and professors a communal space to enjoy the benefits of being able to bathe in nature. The gardens are inspired by the Lugano landscapes and their terraced slopes feature Mediterranean plants that have been naturalised thanks to the mild climate of the lake and carefully chosen for their seasonal characteristics.

Founded in Sorengo (Lugano) in 1969 and offering 17 Bachelor’s degree courses and 5 Master’s degree courses to almost 300 students from over 50 countries, Franklin University Switzerland (FUS) is a university institution that provides an American-style education.

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

In a bid to continually grow and increase student numbers, the University decided to extend one of its accommodation buildings, “Campus 3”, and has commissioned Milanese studio Flaviano Capriotti Architetti for the project. The new section will cover a range of functions, including 30 residential units, educational spaces, offices, a fitness area and underground parking.

As a cradle of knowledge and a temple of learning, Franklin University Switzerland offers interdisciplinary and experiential learning, with the academic journey at the centre of its curriculum. As well as pedagogy, this journey also involves experiential activity and the sharing of the everyday. As such, the campus areas and student accommodation are designed to encourage continuous development and professional but also human and personal growth, which is promoted through the act of sharing, exchange and debate.

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Image Courtesy © Flaviano Capriotti Architetti

Tags: Sorengo, Switzerland

Categories: Educational Center, Educational Institute, University, University Building

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