9
L-shaped in plan, the building runs parallel with busy
High Street on the north with a return on Morotai Ave.
To the west with its frontage on busy High Street, this
small school suddenly has a much bigger presence by
means of quality rather than quantity. A full-height
grillage of clear and coloured panels forms the
centrepiece of the main, north-facing, street elevation.
The use of multi-hued lozenges is repeated on the east
and west ends with the motif of divine light as playful,
animating gesture.
Panelised walls of Viridian performance glass and
SpectraPrism™ result in a facade of enriched
detail and interior effect.
Vision’s Peter Hyatt spoke with Y2 project director
Garry Thompson to discuss the rise of the classroom
as tree house:
Is there a memorable project moment?
Walking with the community at the
opening and experiencing the space that has taken
years for them to envisage. All of a sudden it was
tangible, that’s the most memorable moment.
VISION
GARRY THOMPSON
For a school that’s always dreamt of something better,
the roll-out must have been a most remarkable gift.
It was an epoch moment for the school in the way that
their education is shifting. The leadership of the school
changed. This was really a delivery to bring the school
and Parish community together in a succinct project.
There is a cellophane wrapped quality where we see
the ‘gift’ within. We see children playing and learning
inside and out.
The building is obviousl y just bricks, mortar and glass, but
it really provides a wonderful place for learning and for
aspiration. It’s light filled, it’s contemporary. It’s engaging
with the teachers, the students and the community.
WATCH ARCHITECT
GARY THOMPSON
IN CONVERSATION