Somerset Lifetimes 2019 Semester 2

Expands SOMERSET COLLEGE

THE DESIGN CENTRE The new Design Centre was also showcased on Founders’ Day and its perforated metal gauze façade is still a striking feature against the green of the quad and the sandstone of the traditional establishment. People have said it makes this view of the campus more ‘grown-up’ like a coming- of-age or even more like a boutique university; the juxtaposition of modern and traditional works well and the vibe inside is just as transformative. 3D printers, laser cutters, robotics combined with a sizzle of entrepreneurship, ‘apps’ and media, render a magnificent picture of students being prepared for the modern world. This centre also includes a living ‘flowering’ green wall which is soon to be ‘fed’ by a new array of solar panels that also charge a Tesla Powerwall battery. Students can interface with these systems to test models of sustainability and recycling that are critical concepts for the next generation to study for the improvement of our world. There is also a fantastic roof-top social area for reflecting on all that has been achieved and for those projects that are still rising up!

THE SUZANNE ROBERTS CENTRE FOR PERFORMING ARTS The enlarged and fully refurbished performing arts building, now called The Suzanne Roberts Theatre for Performing Arts, is fully operational and currently testing its new operational capabilities. The Herbert Foyer is a stunning new entrance to the theatre and has already hosted social gatherings and the first of many packed events. The addition of an additional nine metre fly tower for fast set changes has required new skills and qualifications for staff to operate but equally it reflects the tremendous opportunities ahead for students wanting advanced experience in this area. Lighting, audio-visual and building management systems have all been upgraded to the latest in automation and energy efficient componentry. Classrooms have been enlarged to cater for the growth in students that has taken place over the years and new facilities like the black-box theatre provide for a whole new creative dimension for students to immerse themselves in. David Thornton Chief Operating Officer

6 Somerset College Expands