The project is a requirement of continuing capacity pressures on existing schools within the area. When complete the school will cater to approximately 1,200 students in years 7 to 12 in a state of the art, all-inclusive, and enriching environment.
The Department of Education initially engaged us to provide master planning services, schematic design and tender documents for a new high school in Collingwood Park in the Ipswich City LGA . We were subsequently engaged by the successful contractor to develop the documents for construction and to provide construction phase services.
The site falls approximately 25-30m from west to east. This offers an opportunity to terrace the site from the west, stepping down to the east. The height of each step is equivalent to a building storey, allowing the buildings to straddle across the terrace steps, with lift access and stairs within the buildings providing access to each of the terrace levels.
The site is currently covered in native vegetation, including significant eucalyptus trees. The masterplan utilises multi-storey (up to four storeys) buildings, minimising building footprints, which provide a large portion of the site as open green space. It is envisaged that sections of the existing vegetation will be maintained, providing environmental benefits and a buffer to the neighbouring residential properties to the north.
It is an a steeply sloping site, requiring clever solutions to fit the 12,200m2 of floor area into the relatively small site, according to Department of Education standards. Our design maximises outdoor play and learning spaces, optimises solar orientation and provides clear, functional and equitable access. Outdoor spaces are terraced up the site, corresponding with the building levels, further enhancing the access connections.
The master plan orientates most of the buildings to the north, providing optimum solar orientation and opportunities for passive design principles.
By creating a modern and well-equipped school environment, the New Secondary School in Collingwood Park will contribute to the growth and development of the region and provide students with the resources they need to succeed.
Lachlan is an accomplished Associate Director with extensive experience designing and delivering diverse projects, including multi-residential, commercial, retail, educational and mixed-use developments. He is a team leader with a passion for projects in the education sector.
