Scotch College

New Staff Centre - an architect's perspective

The Lithgow Centre (Library and Computer Centre) was the first phase of a vision that has now come to fruition with the construction of The New Staff Centre.

The new design has sought to emulate the plan form and the volume and massing of the original J-Block which occupied the site. Hence, orange brick walls, with projecting alternating courses of tapestry brickwork, are used together with 45 degree pitched terracotta tiled roofs. Gables are used to emphasise the main entrance and two side wings.

Ridge vents inspired from J-Block, are used on the main North-South ridge line. The cambered recessed entrance arch reflects the section of the barrel vaulted foyer, and the entrances and facade details of the Lithgow Centre are linked through the joining atrium.

Every effort has been made to fulfil the requirements of a 1990's functional building internally, whose facade contextually reflects the ambience of the traditional Scotch College Campus character around the Main Oval.

The broad arched entry announces the public and staff entry to the entire complex through a barrel vaulted entry foyer opening into a double volumed atrium space lit by an overhead glazed lantern. This atrium space links the staff centre to the library and computer centre.

The atrium is at the heart of the building where teachers and boys consult with each other around a gently playing fountain. Space, light, texture and colour combine to produce an ambience conducive to learning and social interaction.

It is said that architecture is the spaces within. All activities surround and look into the atrium. The complex is transparent from The Meares oval to Main Oval.

The teachers' common room, senior staff offices and reception occupy the ground floor. Above, are the teachers' work areas and staff lounge. A linking colonnade has connected the upper teachers' work areas to the main quadrangle. The three lower pointed arches were salvaged from the demolition of 'J' block and re-used in the construction of the link arcade. A lower basement area approached by a ramp on the south side of the building houses staff change facilities.

An air-conditioning plant has been housed in the voluminous roof spaces.

Already, the building has settled into the campus and early reports indicate that the teachers have embraced their new centre with joy.

Garry Martin, Architect