The SQA’s move to ‘The Optima’ was part of a space rationalisation exercise which sought to benefit from the sharing of overheads with another government agency (Learning + Teaching Scotland).  The move entailed greater open plan working and, as a result, some staff apprehension about disturbance and lack of privacy.  haa’s design sought to mitigate these effects with strategically placed objects which create corners for informal meetings and equipment and which create circulation spaces which are much more than corridors.  The result is bright and open, with increased interaction and a positive acceptance of open plan.  Student artwork is used extensively to enliven the space and provide points of special interest.