VISION 48 — GUIDING LIGHT
‘Optimistic’ architecture is a subjective
quality but one worth pursuing when
it comes to education. Feelings of
connectedness, opportunity and hope
are all possible in an atmosphere where
design does its job.
Interestingly, Y2 took its cues not merely from the
program at hand, but referenced one of the greats
in the search for a design solution. They found it in
Le Corbusier’s masterwork at Ronchamp Chapel in
the French countryside – 16,487kms and 67 years away
from this small parish school in Ashburton, Melbourne.
St. Michael’s Primary reveals jewel-like elements in its
glittering, light-filled addition to this school of 240
students. Y2 Architecture’s homage to Corbusier’s
best-ever building, pays off handsomely with this
multi-faceted learning wing. An understanding of
daylight as a sculptural element is key to the serious
business of playful design.
In an era of open and kinder education this new building
opens to the outside world but, equally, is fully connected
within. Large sliding glass doors between classrooms
across two levels and adjustable, operable windows are
distinct clues to this new teaching and learning model.
Fully flexible and light-filled, Y2‘s design isn’t all expanse
or revelation. There’s also enclosure with areas for retreat
and rest via a series of study pods or perches. Modelled
on the idea of the tree-house, the building provides eight
classrooms – theoretically expandable into two huge
single volumes – or the more commonly used separate
rooms. A circulation zone and locker area on the south
runs across two levels and is serviced by a staircase at
either end.
PROJECT
St. Michael’s Parish School,
Ashburton, Victoria
ARCHITECTS
Y2 Architecture
PRINCIPAL GLAZING
Viridian Double Glazed Unit using EnergyTech™ Clear
EnergyTech™ Clear (6mm)ComfortPlus™ Clear (10.38mm)
SpectraPrism™ Ruby Red & Custom Colours
SpectraSeraphic™ Custom Colours
LuminaMist™ Clear
TEXT, IMAGES & FILM
Peter & Jenny Hyatt