The recently completed Stage 1 of Mother Teresa Catholic School has already proven a welcome and successful addition to the emerging Baldivis community.
Parry & Rosenthal Architects' latest design is not just a place for learning- it's an iconic landmark that the whole community can enjoy and identify as its own.
Taking centre stage in the design is a large landscaped courtyard in which the school and local community can gather together as one for special events and celebrations.
Each learning area has a strong visual and physical connection to the surrounding external spaces and natural environment.
Internally, the rooms are large and open, with smaller 'learning pods' that provide more intimate spaces for quiet reflection and interaction. A palette of warm natural materials from rammed earth and timber to zinc cladding was selected to achieve an energy-efficient, unique aesthetic and at the same time reduce long-term ongoing maintenance costs. The classrooms are designed and orientated to optimise passive solar effects, natural lighting and natural ventilation.
Since its completion, the school has been the winner of numerous industry awards, including commendations from the international Council of Educational Facility Planners, and the Australian Institute of Architects.
PROJECT PROFILE
Mother Teresa Catholic School
ARCHITECT | Parry & Rosenthal Architects Project & Design Director Paul Rossen Project Architect Leon Slattery P&RA team
BUILDER | Pyramid Constructions WA
BRIEF | To create a high-quality, appropriately scaled and friendly primary school that complements the existing landscape in a new, rapidly developing area.
FEATURES | Stage 1 includes learning areas for kindergarten, pre-primary and Years 1-3, plus administration, covered area, play areas and landscaping.
LOCATION | Baldivis, WA
