Strengthening a connection to Country through acoustic design

Architect: ARM Architecture

Installer: LL Installations

Categories: Education, Project, Sports and aquatics

Builder: Hansen Yuncken

Account Manager: Dimitri Ekanayake

Photographer: John Gollings

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An image of custom printed Cube™ panel in an indigenous inspired design in a collaborative space.

Enhancing learning opportunities across complex vertical layouts

The project

Located on the land of the Boon Wurrung and Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Eastern Kulin Nation, North Melbourne Primary School is a unique state-of-the-art vertical school in the heart of inner-city Melbourne. Funded by the Victorian School Building Authority and designed by ARM Architecture, the innovative design responds to complex site challenges, setting a benchmark for vertical learning environments which continue to gain traction as the urban population grows.

As a pilot project, the design of North Melbourne Primary was always going to be under the spotlight. Located on a challenging triangular site the design optimises every inch of space by layering general learning, specialist and multi-purpose spaces with outdoor learning environments in a six-storey vertical design.

An image of Composition® in Falling Water and Stonewash Vertiface® on the walls and ceiling in a small informal learning area

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An image of Composition® with a granny smith Vertiface® installed on the walls in a library

The problem

As educational institutions evolve, so do learning spaces. The lines between formal and informal learning are blurred and classrooms now centre around collaboration, problem-solving, and interaction. These endeavours are all rooted in developing strong language and communication between students and teachers, highlighting the need for good acoustic design. Autex Acoustics® worked closely with ARM to create a high performing acoustic solution without compromising on their interior design vision. The interiors are vibrant and playful, embracing Indigenous narratives and inspiring a deep appreciation for diversity and inclusion.

“Custom graphics were generated in-house by ARM based on narratives shared by local Elders,” says Andrea Wilson, Principal at ARM Architecture. “The graphics were non-repeating on a large scale, which meant that each panel had to be printed and grid sequenced. The challenge presented here was to ensure that the images aligned exactly, and Autex executed this perfectly–which was quite some feat.”

An image of Quietspace® panels in 25mm with a Simba Vertiface® on the ceiling of a basketball stadium.

A wide angle shot of the library, featuring a custom printed Cube™ ceiling and Composition® with Koala Vertiface® on the walls.

Custom printed Cube™ in indigenous inspired patterns, Composition® with Koala Vertiface®

North Melbourne Primary from a bird’s eye view showcasing the scope of works.

Birds eye view of the entire school site

Additional info

The solution

An image of Composition® in Simba Vertiface® on the walls and ceiling in a small informal learning area.

This outcome was the result of close collaboration between Autex Acoustics’ design and print teams and the client. Autex Acoustics’ technical staff took time to understand the brief and the space itself, and then went to work designing the ideal solution using panels of varying shapes and sizes, including custom cuts.

Autex Acoustics Composition® is sustainable, featuring a high percentage of recycled PET in its make-up. This is a significant advantage for specifiers looking to make environmentally sound decisions and meet Australian and international industry standards. “ESD credentials are an important part of every project,” says Andrea. “Our clients enjoy understanding the origin of Autex Acoustics’ recycled material–this always adds character to the ESD story.”

The result

A close-up image of Composition® in Falling Water and Stonewash Vertiface® on the walls and ceiling in a small informal learning area.

Finally, due to its PET construction, Autex Acoustics Composition® doubles as a pinboard–enabling students and teachers to bring the space to life with their own artwork and designs, further enhancing the personalised and unique character of the space. “Autex Acoustics board versatility was key in highlighting the joyous and unique nature of this education space,” says Andrea. “This is a gallery space for the children. Art is pinned on these walls much to the delight of everyone–us included.”