This project involves the modernisation of Block A at Portland Primary School. The building was erected in 1879 by the Education Department to designs by H.K. Bastow and had been modified several times from its original form. It had deteriorated significantly over time and the existing services and internal layout of spaces were no longer suitable for use as learning spaces. The refurbishment of the existing building was a priority to the school to enable them to continue to provide quality education.

Client

Victorian School Building Authority

Completed

2017

Project Type

Education/ Heritage

Traditional Owners

Gunditjmara people

Transforming spaces on a tight budget

Prior to the commencement of this project Block A was significantly worn internally and externally. The deterioration of the building interior, combined with previous internal alterations, resulted in a building that was no longer suitable for use as learning spaces. There were no data/communication services in the building and all other existing services (sewer, water, gas, electricity) to the building were sub-standard. No heating or cooling was operational and due to roof leaks, internal finishes were in poor condition and required upgrading.

The refurbishment of Block A sought not only to address the substantial maintenance concerns, but to also provide a facility that was more suited to contemporary teaching practices. KDA pushed the limited budget to re-imagine a building constructed over 120 years ago and make it suitable for contemporary learning. With a small budget and a compressed time program (16 months from engagement to Practical Completion) the uninhabitable building with inadequate services and rigid, enclosed spaces has been transformed into a learning centre that provides diverse learning opportunities for all students.

Sensitive refurbishment

The positive elements of the original building have been retained, restored and celebrated- high timber lined ceilings, teaching wall units and large classroom windows. The internal solid brick walls have been punctured to provide more open and dynamic learning spaces. Less defined boundaries to the learning areas allows for fluid movement of students across the wet discovery, collaboration and retreat spaces. New joinery units float within the existing volumes, providing storage and retreat spaces that were not available in the building’s original configuration.

External works consisted mostly of repair works, but did allow for the sensitive inclusion of a new clear roofed verandah, providing a covered entrance to the new Outdoor Learning court. Prior to this project, access to outside included steps and non-uniform paving surfaces. The new outdoor space is large enough to accommodate multiple classes, is universally accessible with hard paving surfaces.