Kia ora koutou

The development of the new Student Hub is moving quickly and is on track for opening at the beginning of 2022. Click on this link to view the final plan on SharePoint. The briefing document shows the redesign of the Level 3 mezzanine and the Level 2 reception. The new desk design will minimise disruption to the way ELS currently works.

Form and function for Library part of the reception desk:

• Library will move from a standing information desk to a sitting desk.
• Storage will be cupboards that stand flush under the stairs and near our corner.
• Library is positioned in the North West corner of the reception area, with 2x seats and possibility of 3 if needed.
• From the Library position at the desk there is line of sight to the ELS workroom, front entrance, makerspace and library self-service kiosks.
• There are 3x entry points to behind the desk, two are close to the Library desk.
• Staplers etc are on the extension part of the Library desk.
• There is ample room to move around behind the desk so it is comfortable, functional and supports any staff who might require wheelchair access.
• There are two wheelchair friendly spaces on the desk (one at the West and one on the East side) for students who are using wheelchairs and being sitting height, this improves the student experience.
• High demand will be reconfigured, likely in the shape of a letter ‘L’ and facing the desk.
• Casual seating will be dotted around the reception area.
• Bean bags will likely move to Level 3 as there are two student lounges.

Indicative timeline and mitigations:

• The redesign will likely start in mid November and be completed for a start in January 2022.
• The position of the new reception desk around the stairs removes the health and safety issue with hitting one’s head, and there is improved security at the desk.
• ELS will provide a temporary info desk by our workroom door when construction work starts and if we are not able to use the existing info desk. This is what we did in AL2 previously and this has worked well as a temporary measure.

Feel free to contact Sara or Te Paea if you have any questions or you would like us to come and talk with your teams.