Through Road Early Learning Centre by Project 12 Architecture | 2023 Victorian Architecture Awards
Small Project Architecture
Wurundjeri

"The project for Through Road Early Learning Centre involved the refurbishment of the existing building to improve the worn facilities and a 46sqm extension to accommodate additional enrolments for the kindergarten program.

The addition curves around the southwest corner of the site, the form angling up towards the street and canopy of a nearby established tree. A low portion of roof connects the addition under the eaves line of the existing building. The curved form addresses the public frontage and occupies the only available space which remained on the site to increase the building area, as the existing outdoor play area had to be maintained to satisfy minimum area requirements per child.

A banding of concrete, white brick, and U-channel glazing sit in contrast to the red brick of the existing building. The high-level glazing allows privacy for children internally, and offers diffuse light, and a play of shadow within. The infill form looks to provide a cohesive, playful, and enduring addition to the existing street context.

The planning of the remaining building was rationalised and upgraded to improve the functionality of the baby, toddler, and kinder rooms, as well as kitchen and staff office. The existing building envelope and roof were maintained to keep within the relatively tight budget of $1M. Internal finishes were kept neutral at the request of the client; soft grey walls are complimented by timber window and door frames and joinery. Views between rooms were provided through a series of circular windows, allowing opportunities for children of different ages to interact and for educators’ supervision between spaces.

The consultant team included OPS Engineers, BRT Consulting Engineers, Architecture and Access and internal consultants from Boroondara City Council, including Building Surveyor and Arborist. The raised concrete footing and screw piles to the new addition were specifically designed to minimise impact of the tree roots of the nearby established tree.

The sustainability and performance of the existing building was improved where possible, within the constraints of the existing built fabric and the $1M budget. A significant area of the area of the existing building was refurbished, ensuring efficient re-use of the existing fabric. The construction and thermal performance of the new extension meets the Section J Deemed-to-Satisfy requirements. New windows were installed to allow natural ventilation. Ceiling fans helped to provide air movement. New, efficient split system AC units were installed to replace the old systems. Existing bricks were removed in the demolition we salvaged and re-used in the proposed works.

Whilst facing challenges of cost escalation and material shortages during tender and construction this project has improved the functionality and day-to-day use for the centre and its wider community. The design has looked to maximise all available space on the site and provide a sympathetic and timeless response which animates the surrounding streetscape."

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The Australian Institute of Architects Presentation to Juries offered entrants in the 2023 Victorian Architecture Awards an opportunity to address judges with their nominated projects.

Featuring some of Australia’s most prominent architects, Presentation to Juries is a rare opportunity for the public to learn about the influences behind some of Victoria’s most innovative buildings and follow the architectural process from concept to construction.

2023 Entrants Gallery
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