Satakunta
University of Applied Sciences (SAMK) in Finland focuses on education,
research, innovation and development activities.
Its
newest campus located in the city centre of Pori caters for 4,200 students.
Construction
of the campus began in 2014 with 9,000m2 of the 14,000m2 campus being
completely redeveloped.
The
project was finished in spring 2017 and the education facility began its work
for the autumn term of 2017, with around 3,000 students and 500 teachers
crossing its thresholds daily.
The
design of school projects often gets weighted in terms of costs. However, the
architects behind SAMK wanted a feature that would also provide a point of
contrast to the otherwise grey and white façade.
Head
architect Matti Asmala of Oy Asmala decided to specify VIVIX by Formica Group panels due to their durable properties
and ease of installation, whilst also ensuring the contemporary building had an
aesthetic that would fit into its leafy surroundings in a sympathetic fashion.
Asmala searched for an
envelope material that would resemble wood as closely as possible to soften the
otherwise efficient style of the build, characterised by clean lines and
functionality. VIVIX panels in Erable
Whisky were applied to the extended window frames.
The feature windows
are dotted around the exterior of the school at irregular intervals, providing
the building with eye-catching detail for passers-by.
Some give
sanctuary-like breakout spaces for students and university staff to relax in,
whilst others provide office spaces with views towards the city centre.
The
natural hue of Erable Whisky can also be found on the soffit lining of the
stand-out roof element outside the main entrance. In addition, it gives the
interior a softening touch, with a narrow strip circling the building just
above the first floor windows. This brings the natural effect of the timber
pattern into the dining area.
Specifying
VIVIX panels for the SAMK campus turned
out to be a simple choice.
The
local authorities welcomed the use of these panels, as they achieve Fire
Retardant Certificate Euroclass B-s1, d0 (EDF grade) in accordance with
European regulation EN 13501-1.
Another
factor for using VIVIX panels was the
ease with which they could be modified onsite with minimal mess, for those last
minute alterations, even in the case of a build where the panels were ordered
cut to measure.
