Kimberley College
Kimberley College
2014-15
$9.2M
Carbrook, QLD
Project Details
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COMMENDATION: 2016 - Australian Institute of Architects Awards Brisbane Region - Educational Architecture
Attributes
Overview
An eco-conscious expansion for a growing campus. We partnered with Kimberley College through two construction stages, delivering a dedicated Year 7 learning area and enhanced performing arts facilities.
Year 7 Learning Building + External Works
The Year 7 building features three single-storey structures encompassing an array of spaces including eight general learning areas, outdoor learning areas, staff and storage rooms, and an amphitheatre. Its design includes an 'L-shaped' classroom block connected by timber decking, a Colorbond roof, and bi-fold doors opening to an outdoor courtyard. The interiors boast ornate Australian hardwood timber cladding, with each timber type laser-engraved, serving as an educational resource. Acoustic ceiling panels, cut into hexagonal shapes, create a distinctive undulating effect mirrored by similarly shaped varicoloured carpet tiles in each classroom.
The courtyard redevelopment repurposed cleared trees into timber benches. Pathways were constructed to enhance walkability, featuring a 'bush path' aesthetic by imprinting fallen leaves into wet concrete. Additionally, a swale/dry creek bed for roof runoff management and carpark extension were added.
Arts, Library + Auditorium Building
The Auditorium in the Arts, Library and Auditorium building includes a retractable screen, projector, and seating for 72, with square-cut acoustic ceiling panels. The Library combines traditional and digital learning with a coffered ceiling, LED strips, pendant lighting, and carpet tiles reflecting the Auditorium's ceiling design. A tiered seating area, doubling as a reading lounge, offers panoramic views. The Arts section houses specialised art rooms, storerooms, a CAD training room, a staff room, and an external pottery kiln.
Sustainable initiatives included:
- Repurposing removed trees into timber benches for seating.
- Shredding unused felled trees to serve as mulch in landscaped regions.
- Organising a ‘planting bee’ to involve students in the landscape rejuvenation.
- Designing balustrades with mesh sections to encourage vine growth, forming natural green walls.
Equipping all lighting with timers and motion sensors to reduce power waste. - Implementing a variable refrigerant flow air conditioning system for substantial energy efficiency.
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Happy client, happy Architect, happy builder, excellent product. What more could you ask for?
Scott Schindel