Gibraltar University / Ayalto Integral

Architects: Ayalto Integral
Area: 5,137 m²
Year: 2015
Photography: David Frutos
Lead Architects: Xavier Ozores
Collaborators: Pedro Carcelén Fernández
Quantity Surveyor: Jorge Carcelén Fernández
Facade Consultant: SETENTA Ltd.
Developer: Gibraltar Government
Building Company: Casais
City: Gibraltar
Country: Gibraltar

Gibraltar University, designed by Ayalto Integral at Europa Point, Gibraltar, has transformed historical barracks into modern educational facility. Completed in 2015, the project integrates old and new buildings to enhance functionality while preserving cultural heritage. The design features new structures for additional space and a central atrium to promote social interaction.

The first visit to the barracks at Europa Point revealed the project’s potential due to its N-S orientation, sea views, and historical significance, including antique materials and brick vaults.

The intervention began with the demolition of structures added over time. Realizing the need for more space, two new buildings were constructed to complement the existing ones, focusing on creating valuable “in-between spaces.”

Existing buildings were refurbished for Academic Staff Offices due to their favorable lighting and independence from common facilities. New volumes were developed to complete the program, restoring the original layout and creating a cloister-like enclosure with a private garden.

Circulation were organized along North-South and East West axes.

The North-South axis connects the north entrance and courtyard, crossing the main building to the barracks. Vertical communications were centralized here. The East-West axis defines the new university entrances.

At their intersection, a new central point houses representative areas like the Main Reception, Learning Café, and Main Hall to foster social interaction and knowledge exchange.

A double-height atrium links activities, utilizing the site’s slope. Covered with thermic glaze and white steel frames equipped with brise-soleils, the atrium creates an Impluvium of natural light. Social areas are formal on the ground level and informal in the basement near the refectory.

The XVIII century character was preserved for the main building, housing the managing Unit, Library, Study Areas, and Main Hall along the N-S axis.

Shared facilities, such as Common Teaching Facilities, Support Staff Office, Toilets, and Staff Room, were placed in the barracks, with classrooms centrally located and complementary uses at the ends.

Two prismatic volumes were constructed on either side of the atrium for the Faculty of Health Studies and the faculty of Hospitality. These structures feature skylights for zenithal lighting and metal profiles for basement support.

Facade were altered to create distinct user spaces on each level.

Positioned above the barracks with an independent entrance near the main access, the restaurant offers a clear, open space with glazed steel frames and shadows. A light roof maximizes views of Africa from Europa Point.