Hillbrook Anglican School Library

The Library at Hillbrook Anglican School was in desperate need of refurbishment and the School community had grown to require a larger facility that embraced a broader definition of a ‘library’ in a 21st Century context. The Library now has all the features and flexibility synonymous with this sentiment.

Project Details

Architects
Brand + Slater Architects

Address
45 Hurdcotte Street, ENOGGERA QLD 4053

Submitter
John Slater, Brand + Slater Architects

Cost
$2,500,000

Photographer
Mindi Cooke

Project Overview

The existing Library at Hillbrook Anglican School was in desperate need of refurbishment and the School community had grown to require a larger facility that embraced a broader definition of a ‘library’ in a 21st Century context.

It was decided early in the planning process to work with the existing structure rather than demolish it completely. The resulting design utilised the existing roof structure to create interesting volumes that would not otherwise exist in a brand new building.

The main library space remains on the ground floor, serviced by Administration and ancillary areas. A new sunken reading nook and two general teaching spaces complete the ground floor plan. Flanking both sides of the building, new stairs lead up to the first floor addition – featuring a large formal meeting room and flexible general teaching areas. These spaces were designed so that they can be independently and securely accessed separately from the Library proper, whilst through the use of fixed glazing; look down into the main Library space creating a strong visual connection.

Outside, a sunken learning area was included to encourage alternative instruction and the adjacent quadrangle was rejuvenated to complete the precinct.

Much attention was given to fixed furniture/built-in joinery as a means to introduce colour to the interior, encouraging students to study and read in the Library.