wilson architects learning hub for st.andrew's anglican college

multi-disciplinary practice wilson architects has recently completed the design of a learning hub for st andrew’s anglican college – a rapidly-growing school on the sunshine coast of australia. the complex incorporates primary and secondary school libraries, multiple collaborative teaching spaces, staff offices, professional development care, several student lounges and an expansive outdoor learning area.

wilson architects learning hub exterior facade
image © christopher frederick jones

wilson architects’ design intent was to give the school a learning heart, and provide a highly-flexible space that could be used for a full spectrum of activity — from concerts and large gatherings, to small group meetings and quiet study sessions. internally, contemporary materials such as glass and metal are balanced with wood to add warmth and richness to the learning space. meanwhile, a covered outdoor gathering area supports large numbers of students in an open-air learning setting.

contemporary architectural layout of the hub
image © christopher frederick jones

st andrew’s anglican college principal chris ivey says the learning hub has seamlessly integrated with the school, and students are taking full advantage of the learning opportunities it presents.“i have spent chunks of time each day in the hub, observing the way our students are using the facility, and it is wonderful to see them using it as if it has always been there,” chris says.

“it’s shifted the focus towards student-centred learning, as opposed to concentrating on teachers and their classrooms. the hub has given students a real sense of ownership of the space and their learning,” hamilton wilson — managing director of WA — says.

overview of the new learning hub
image © christopher frederick jones

the facility supports the college’s transition to more collaborative teaching and learning, following trials undertaken prior to, and during the design phase. the new hub has also set up the strategy and sequence for future construction stages.

the learning hub is a university-like facility
image © christopher frederick jones

‘the school has transformed from being very disparate, to extremely cohesive’
image © christopher frederick jones

the choice of material and lighting add warmth to the overall design
image © christopher frederick jones

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: lea zeitoun | designboom