Discovering new learning modes in flexible classroom spaces.

Designed and delivered in collaboration between NBRS and Fleetwood Australia, Elwood College is one of the first triple storey permanent modular buildings to be procured for the south-east region of Melbourne.

Due to population pressure, Elwood College needed to quickly provide additional facilities for future growth from surrounding primary schools. Continuing safe operation with minimal disruption to the school community and an efficient delivery time were key constraints.

For this purpose, a modular design solution was developed to allow construction to be completed within twenty weeks. Smart early design solutions created an efficient build, causing minimal disruption to ongoing school operation. Thoughtful design and careful coordination resulted in features such as moveable walls and reconfigurable spaces that support many learning modalities. This included 6 future focused learning spaces designed for team teaching, with associated covered learning commons and pod meeting rooms to facilitate focused learning.

Responding to consideration of the environment and site location, the concertina shape of the building form opens to the desirable north and captures outlook and beneficial natural light. In addition to this, a generous and articulated glazed walkway connecting the learning spaces was conceived as a European winter garden space that could be used for informal learning and socialising.

NBRS is proud to have participated in the design of Elwood College, which proves the viability of modular design solutions to create flexible learning spaces in a short amount of time.