The John Cunningham Student Centre is a new addition and upgrade to the existing Stevenson Library building within The Scots College situated in Bellevue Hill. Works transformed a bare structure into a larger and more practical building with modern amenities and technologies and an authentic, internationally acclaimed Scots Baronial design. This has increased functionality of the building which has, in turn, become integral to the school’s operations and proud historical legacy.
The development has created a new, accessible learning and study environment delivering a number of key benefits to the school community. These comprise multiple new learning spaces, dedicated pastoral care and counselling facilities, improved academic research spaces, enhanced accessibility routes and new formal function rooms on the upper levels.
Division
Refurbishment & Live Environments
Client
Presbyterian Church (NSW) Property Trust
Location
Bellevue Hill, NSW
Value
Confidential
The existing Stevenson Library building underwent major alterations and additions. Works included extensions to floor slabs, creation of an atrium void, addition of a sixth storey within the new pitched roof, complete internal fitout works, and re-cladding of the exterior. The new development overlooks the school oval and allow free flowing north-south circulation between respective buildings, something that was not previously possible within the campus.
Taylor collaborated with the client on several Value Engineering proposals and solutions. Successful concepts included the rationalisation of the minor windows to the western elevation, redesign of the parquetry flooring as well as substitution of sandstone blockwork to the plinths and surrounds of the large feature windows with masonry and render.
An important aspect of the project was maintaining the Scots Baronial design to reinforce the College’s rich history and traditions. This included the use of traditional materials, styles and techniques of the period. Taylor worked closely with the Architect on pre-construction design to meet the vision of the project whilst maintaining the functionality and value of the building.
