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Vision’s Peter Hyatt met with Architectus principal
John Sprunt to learn how design restraint can create
the quiet star:
Any special influences or inspiration?
It’s very much about the notion of
a library or community space as a main driver
of the function and as a pivotal building. Our
references included the State Library of Victoria’s
grand reading room, and Louis Kahn’s Exeter Library.
The notion of spatial acuity was a very important
conceptual device.
VISION
JOHN SPRUNT
It’s a very considerate building and good neighbour.
Contextually, it’s not of the place being very
contemporary in the midst of tradition yet this
contrast proves highly effective.
Its transparency contributes a sense of honesty and
calm. The idea of connection both visual and
physical is about the use of materials, and glass
being a predominate one in terms of how we
translate that link between outside and inside.
Furthermore, when we frame spaces in an education
environment, we need to look at catering for every
type of student. It’s not all just about collaborative
space. There is the time and the place for dedicated or
isolated work. We need to create spaces for children
that are more introverted, not simply the ones happy
to work in groups of six, ten or twenty. That visual
connection is a way of creating a sense of calm
(or comfort) whilst having acoustic separation
for targeted learning and study.
There are a raft of functions and activities across
various age groups. How do you achieve a robust
learning space yet balance this with effective
private study?
Transparency whether it’s via spatial arrangement or
glazing heightens the feeling of connection. We use
acoustic glass where necessary and acoustic panels,
but it’s not a space where students are forced to
tip-toe around. It’s a working learning environment.
It’s a joyful space.