Gates Cambridge Scholars and staff open re-developed Scholars’ Common Room.
The Gates Cambridge Scholars’ Common Room at the University Centre has played an integral part in creating a Gates Cambridge community for Scholars in residence. Generations of Scholars have used the room as a hub for a wide variety of activities, and enjoyed the sweeping views across the Mill Pond area.
The room underwent a total redevelopment this summer and was officially opened last night by over 40 Scholars and staff.
The new room provides a number of practical improvements while also creating a space that aligns with the new Gates Cambridge branding. Three separate areas (a quiet room with computers; a group work room with discussion pods; a social area with large sofas and TV) provide Scholars with a unique and flexible space. The separated rooms can also open up for larger events.
Gina Murphy, Internal Office of the Scholars’ Council who has been part of the room’s redevelopment team, said: "The new room is amazing! It is incredibly functional but also has a very premium feel to it. The Scholars hugely value such a beautiful, unique and flexible space – it provides an important hub for the Scholar community in Cambridge. As Scholars we are very grateful to the Trust for funding and involving us in this project, and are especially grateful to David Lott and Lucy Milazzo for bringing it to fruition”.
The room’s designer, Chris Levings of Design Cambridge Interiors, said: “This was a unique, interesting and fun project; working with Gates Cambridge has been both an enjoyable and inspiring experience – we are delighted that the Trust and the Scholars are so happy with the new space”.
David Lott, the Trust’s Deputy Treasurer who oversaw the project, said: “The Common Room plays an integral part in maintaining the strong sense of community amongst Gates Cambridge Scholars. The redeveloped room not only provides first rate facilities in a wonderful setting, but gives our Scholars a strong sense of identity – it is very much their room where they can study, share ideas, socialise and hold a range of interesting events. We think the room is one of several elements of the Gates Cambridge programme that set the Scholarships apart.”
A selection of images of the room (more available in the members' area in "Connect" under the photo tab):
