Scotch College Mathematics and Commerce Building

Oct 12

An inspiring place for student-focused learning

Project info

Client: Scotch College
Location: Swanbourne, WA
Traditional owners: Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation
Value: $13.2 Million
Date: 2020
Image credit: Andrew Pritchard

This new addition to the north-east quadrant of the Senior School campus (also known as the new Teaching and Learning Building) accommodates learning areas for 500 senior students, including General Learning Areas (GLAs), a lecture space, and flexible meeting rooms.

The key thematic drivers for the building’s design are connection, student-focused learning, flexibility, and structured learning. External learning spaces, internal GLAs and incidental learning areas – connected through large, glazed sliding doors – provide visual connections and daylighting. Generous external areas on the north and south support passive recreational uses that enhance the deliberate siting of the building as a node between the Senior and Middle Schools.

The design integrates maths-inspired forms and references to works by notable mathematicians, which provide opportunities for discovery both within and outside the building. Materials reflect the local character of the site, with a combination of face brick, solar performance glazing, sunshading louvres and limestone cladding on the prominent north-facing Shenton Road address. The southern elevation faces the heart of the Senior School campus and displays the College House tartans, intertwined with the college’s history.

Awards

2021 Australian Institute of Architects WA Awards – Educational Architecture Commendation
2020 Learning Environments WA Awards – New Construction / New Individual Facility (Or Facilities) Over $8M Commendation