New Science Centre an Architectural Laboratory
25 April 2004
| Location: | Armadale, Victoria |
| Country: | Australia |
| Client: | Lauriston Girls' School |
| Architect: | Swaney Draper Architects Simone Swaney Ph 03 9417 6162 Fax 03 9419 4480 |
An energy efficient girls' school is leading the way with a state-of-the-art Science and Information Technology Centre and Library that showcases sustainable, environmentally conscious architecture. Lauriston Girls' School in Armadale, Victoria sought to create a building that expressed the educational philosophies of the school, according to Simon Swaney of Swaney Draper Architects.
"The building is about the future, therefore environmental issues were important to the school, along with a functional, flexible design that will serve current and future students effectively," he said.
The principal achievement of the building is an energy efficient design that uses minimal resources both in construction and operation.
The materials used in the construction of the building were selected to be near maintenance free and offer longevity, and to reduce the impact on the environment through quick installation and extended life.
The architects chose BONDOR Equitilit" architectural wall panels for exterior wall cladding on the north and south walls because of BONDOR's effective thermal insulation.
BONDOR Equitilt" panels form a structural wall system that uses prepainted panels made from COLORBOND® steel to encompass an insulated, fire retardant treated Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) core.
The result is a lightweight panel that's quick to install, with excellent thermal insulation.
"It's a clean, stylish looking product that is virtually maintenance free and offers impressive insulation properties," Mr Swaney said.
He selected COLORBOND® Metallic steel in the colour Citi® to give the building its dramatic visual appeal.
The appearance of COLORBOND® Metallic steel, developed by BlueScope Steel, changes according to the light and viewing angle to create subtle yet striking effects.
The Science and Information Technology Centre has employed a range of energy saving strategies, including minimal east and west glazing and the provision of thermal mass by using stablised rammed earth.
Natural ventilation to circulating areas ensures a comfortable environment while reducing energy usage.
The school has created a superior learning environment for students with five laboratories, classrooms that incorporate CAD graphics facilities, and a large open plan resource centre.
*BONDOR" and Equitilt" are trademarks of Metecno Pty Ltd
