Entrance provides an easily identifiable transitional space
Urban design to accommodate children
New wing
Original (initially 2 classrooms)
Highlight windows
Store for chemicals
Two-way interactivity
Preparation and storage lab
For supervision and two-way interactivity with computer lab and all classrooms
Built-in storage
Built-in furniture
Corridor added
Low windows to allow supervision at all times
Blinds built-in for natural climate control
Highlight windows to allow natural light and ventilation
Supervision
Each space is visible to the other
Feature colour pin-board to be practical yet visually stimulating
Inbuilt design
Built-in furniture
Each shelf has been deliberately designed without doors to allow a shadow print of equipment to be visible--in this way, the school can easily keep track of their equipment
Storage
Built-in furniture
Windows to create interactivity between spaces as well as a sense of openness
Highlight windows
The brief was to provide spaces which would facilitate visual interactivity for users of the new spaces. The idea was that from the central offices, staff would be able to monitor students in any of the classrooms within the complex.
The school had engaged a number of architectural firms prior to Genem, all of which provided a plan that either exceeded the budget, or was inconsistent with the brief.
Genem provided a plan that involved a series of internal windows allowing each room to refer to the other. Importantly, it provided cross-interactivity between spaces at opposite ends of the building.
One of the features of the design was the inclusion of an entrance with an adjoining enclosed corridor, providing a transitional space which allowed all-weather access to each learning area. The result was the enacting of a foundational, environmentally sustainable principle that better managed the distribution of energy within the building and reduced energy wastage.
The addition of the preparation room and storage space along the west side of the building, with direct access to every classroom, created a safe and functional working environment for teaching staff and students.
Testimonials
Genem Architects have been designing and project managing for Lilydale Adventist Academy for many years. Projects have included design work and refurbishment of our Science Building, Art and Technology Centre and more recently the Language Centre. In 2007 the Library Resource Centre was opened which includes a 54 seat Theatrette. The design elements of this project always engender a 'wow' response from visitors and prospective enrolments. Genem staff are excellent to work with. Thorough documentation is provided with a minimum of fuss and the budget for each project has always been balanced or better. I have found my experience with Genem Architects positive, personal and professional and would recommend them to anyone looking for a company who prides itself on performance and a quality product.
Ben Thomas
Principal
Lilydale Adventist Academy
Victoria.
