New Zealand Commercial Design Trends Series NZ Commercial Design Trends Vol. 34/02C | Page 46

10-storey apartment building to the east, contrasted with a 5-storey party wall to the west. “These massing constraints resulted in a stepped section across the site, establishing a series of cas- cading ‘garden terraces’ that offer a rich diversity of external spaces located off classrooms. The school is organised around this vertical section, starting with the youngest pupils (3-5 years) at ground floor through to junior pupils (9-11 years) at the top.” This arrangement also allowed for the main hall – for assemblies and dining – and a large multi- use space to form the school’s social heart on the search | save | share at ground floor. Retractable partitioning separating these two dynamic hall spaces means the whole of the ground floor can be opened into a single space for large communal events. “Large rooflights bring natural daylight deep into the heart of the plan to enliven the communal hall areas below and the circulation spaces running alongside the atrium,” says Jolly. Classrooms at each level are positioned on the edge of the terraces, with sliding doors opening directly onto the external learning and play areas. As well as promoting exercise and sport, the Below:Facilities at the new school provide for a larger primary school, a full time nursery and an autism centre, accommodating 458 pupils in total. Below, right:Classrooms are bathed in natural light with large fixed windows facing the street and opening windows with facade louvres providing natural ventilation via the playgrounds.