The Building has been designed with the duality of Lincoln’s scholastic tradition in mind; the traditional approach to scholastic endeavour within a modern context. In order to achieve this, the building recognises the need for a process of focusing and removal from the distractions of modern life in order to allow the scholar to concentrate absolutely on his or her work. The Building is constructed around a central corridor which forms the symbolic processional route along which the scholar progresses during their stay, the ultimate goal of which is the library and study spaces. Along the way there are both private and communal areas for reflection. There are also areas which allow the scholar a glimpse of the city reminding them of the greater context of their work and the world they will return to. The austere and severe finishes of the building, in conjunction with careful use of lighting, removes distractions and helps the scholar to focus on their work. The exterior of the building is clad in local limestone echoing the materiality of the historical centres for learning within the city, though its modern form acknowledges the university and regeneration of the city.
