ARM UNDERTOOK AN INITIAL MASTERPLANNING EXERCISE WITH FIRBANK GRAMMAR THAT LOOKED AT HOW THE CAMPUS MIGHT EVOLVE OVER THE NEXT TWENTY YEARS. ONE OF THE OUTCOMES OF THIS REVIEW WAS THE DESIRE TO CREATE, NOT ONLY A SERIES OF NEW EDUCATION FACILITIES BUT A RANGE OF EXTERNAL PLACES WITHIN THE CAMPUS.
In designing the Learning Hub this was foremost in our minds. Rather than simply addressing the pragmatic aspects associated with a new classroom block we looked at the urban impact that the building would have on the campus. Design investigations lead to a two storey building form that defined three distinct external spaces including a new civic common between the Learning Hub and the Wool Wool building to the south. The grassed common and the associated paved piazza area provides a new focal point for the campus which had not previously existed.
Architecturally the Learning Hub was conceived as a composition of elements and ideas which responded to the complex internal relationships of the campus. This approach allowed us to create distinct design strategies for the facades of the Learning Hub. The brick facade to the south complements the historic Wool Wool Building, while the battening to northern facade references the residential architecture of the surrounding suburbs. A playful feature wall presents a contemporary image to the north of the site.
Apart from providing much needed new facilities the Learning Hub provides a new focus and image for the campus while complementing the existing heritage buildings and intimate qualities of the campus.
