Beyond The Classroom
The university without walls
A.B. Siegers (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
O. Caso – Mentor (TU Delft - Building Knowledge)
H.F. Eckardt – Mentor (TU Delft - Teachers of Practice / AE+T)
Y. Söylev – Mentor (TU Delft - Building Knowledge)
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Abstract
‘Beyond the classroom’ explores the future role of university spaces within the specific context of the Bocconi University in Milan.
In an time where the exchange of knowledge can happen anywhere at any time, what role do university spaces still play? This research suggests that, in addition to their traditional role as knowledge centers, universities must embrace their civic role of social engagement.
The central research question asks: ‘How can university spaces adapt to the digital transformation of education while sustaining their civic role in fostering social engagement?’ To address this, a new faculty building was designed for Bocconi University. The design introduces the ‘university without walls’, a building that acts as a bridge between students and society. The project forms a layered learning landscape that supports innovation, social engagement, and personal initiative, connecting students both to each other and to the creative economy of Milan. Defined by core principles of continuity, connectivity, adaptability, transparency, and social circulation, the design ultimately establishes a student landmark.