The design and architecture of learning institutes has come a long way, evolving over time from drab and tired to inspired and innovative.
Deakin University’s CADET building in Geelong is no exception. It is a contemporary, collaborative, and highly transparent learning environment. With its monochrome palette, Gray Puksand Architects set out to create something accessible, inventive and original.
With the help of our glass, they wanted to connect students with mezzanine-like spaces encouraging unobstructed views that link students with each other. Full transparency and high visibility were key factors to the execution of their design concept. Mark Freeman, CADET project leader and partner at Gray Puksand Architects, explains how this exceptional facility was brought to life.
“I think the biggest challenge was that the client really wanted a completely glass, glazed box. Climatically that wasn’t achievable, but we were able to work with Viridian to ensure we could give the client as much glass as possible externally, but in a very controlled manner without being convoluted or over-designed.”
To achieve this sense of openness, glass was installed in every facet of the design including the facade of the building, the internal staircases and above and below floors.
“No one space has any one true purpose and the way that the spaces are configured and connected, seamlessly, is that they can also benefit from proximities and multiple functionalities,” Freeman said.
To connect occupants to outdoor studios and the outdoor learning environment, a fully glazed facade was installed all around the building using our Viridian SolTech™ Grey double-glazed unit.
“No matter where you are, within that central design space, looking up, looking down, left or right, from that one point you can essentially witness and experience all the activities occurring within that building,” Freeman explains.
