opening act

It's not just new technology that is transforming the way students learn. Contemporary architecture is also creating professional teaching environments that are both highly functional and visually exciting.

The new Piki Mahuta Centre for Arts Education at the Waikato Diocesan School for Girls in Hamilton is a prime example. Designed by Chow:Hill Architects, the centre provides a range of dedicated teaching and performance spaces, including drama and music rooms, practice rooms and a media studies room. But the centre also has another role to play, says Brian Rastrick from Chow:Hill Architects.

"The building adjoins the existing hall, so it creates a new public face for the school. The double-height atrium, for example, doubles as a reception area a place for after-school functions and art exhibitions."

Rastrick says the design of the centre needed to be modern, but also sympathetic to the existing historic buildings in the school grounds.

"The curved brick walls of the centre reference these older buildings, although the painted finish helps ensure this building has a separate identity."

Rastrick says the design takes its cue from the performing arts. For example, the glazed entry with its U-shaped steel beams is a modern interpretation of a proscenium arch. And the overlapping curved walls, which are linked by narrow glass slits, are reminiscent of theatre curtains and stage sets.

"The floating timber ceiling panels in the atrium also play up the theme of performance they create a sense of movement. These panels have an additional functional role, concealing services. The suspended white panels on the ceiling provide acoustic insulation."

Timber flooring directs the eye from the entry to the tall hall doors, which feature a woven pattern of vertical- and horizontal-grained wood panels. On the mezzanine level, a bright red wall adds a touch of drama that helps enliven the overall space.

For further information, contact Chow:Hill Architects, phone (07) 834 0348. Website: www.chowhill.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas