Joan Freeman Centre, SCEGGS

The Joan Freeman Centre for SCEGGS Darlinghurst represents the final stage in a Masterplan developed in 1999 by Tanner Kibble Denton Architects for the school’s long term development. Located on a constrained inner city site, the school’s existing science, technology and art facilities were dispersed across different levels of the school’s campus, and were inadequate for the school’s curriculum needs.

A key consideration for the new Joan Freeman Science, Technology and Arts Centre was to provide new contemporary learning facilities with departments grouped in proximity and generally on single levels for improved supervision and efficient use of shared facilities. New facilities include 6 x Science Laboratories, 4 x TAS Rooms, 1 x Computer Lab, 6 x Art Classrooms and a 252 seat tiered lecture theatre. An underground staff carpark for 83 cars is provided below the building.

A central linear atrium space is a key design element, providing access to the teaching spaces and reinforcing the central pedestrian circulation spine which runs through the building and wider campus. The atrium provides an active circulation space that provides opportunities for students and staff to informally meet and interact. The atrium importantly brings natural light deep into the floor plan and is naturally ventilated through the use of glass louvres.