Caroline Chisholm: Inspiring the Next Generation of Scientists
Build Date
February 2021
Client
Caroline Chisholm Catholic College
Location
Braybrook, Victoria
Architect / Designer
Branch Studio Architects
Value
$1.8M
One of our first major projects for a longstanding client, this transformative redevelopment at Caroline Chisholm Catholic College came from the need for a refreshed approach to science education at the school. Several classrooms were consolidated into a dedicated, state-of-the-art science wing designed to inspire curiosity, foster collaboration, and provide a safe, modern environment for teaching the latest science techniques.
Previously, science classes were spread across various rooms, some upstairs, and often in spaces that hadn’t been designed for practical science work. The area earmarked for the new wing was originally home to an art room and two general-purpose classrooms. We had already delivered a new sick bay for the school in another part of the campus – that project helped cement the trust and collaborative rapport that underpinned this much larger build.
This project required a complete strip-out, a reconfiguration of space, and an extension to the front of the building. The new layout incorporates two spacious laboratories, a science office, a meeting room, and support spaces. These are all designed for seamless teaching and learning.
There were some interesting challenges. Every student workstation required fully integrated gas, water and power services so they could conduct experiments easily and safely. We cut extensive trenches through the existing concrete slab, placed the conduit and reinstated concrete to install these services. The trenching was one of the most challenging elements of the project. It demanded absolute precision to avoid compromising the integrity of the slab, and foundation of the wing.
The constraints of working in a functioning school environment on this kind of project are always interesting and provide a logistical challenge on this project. Deliveries, noise, and site access were all planned around class schedules and student safety.
The bespoke ceiling in the labs is a distinctive feature of the project. Composed of custom-made, vacuum-formed polycarbonate panels with an integrated printed artwork, it transforms the labs into spaces that feel dynamic and inspiring. The panels were individually shaped, creating subtle contours that play with light and colour. While visually striking, their installation posed a challenge: the original specification lacked a practical system for supporting the panels. We proposed an innovative solution – using a standard Rondo ceiling grid to securely and efficiently hold the lightweight panels. This allowed for straightforward installation without compromising the design intent.
Equally eye-catching is the flooring. Initially specified as patterned vinyl, achieving the complex multi-coloured design in vinyl would have generated significant material wastage and inflated costs. We suggested a multi-layer epoxy finish as a cost-effective alternative. This approach also delivered a perfectly crisp pattern.
To create it, we worked with a surveyor to map the intricate layout. First, a light grey epoxy base was applied, followed by precise marking and taping according to the design. Additional colours, including white and a rich purple, were layered on, with a clear topcoat sealing the surface for durability. The result is a vibrant, seamless floor that ties the room together and enhances the creative energy of the space.
Acoustic pinboard lines the walls, helping dampen sound in what could otherwise be a noisy environment. This, combined with the careful selection of finishes and layouts, creates a calm and safe atmosphere where students can focus and collaborate effectively.
Beyond the technical achievement, this project represents something more significant - a milestone in our company’s portfolio. As one of our first large-scale educational builds, it demonstrated our capability to manage complex projects in live school environments, liaise effectively with multiple stakeholders, and deliver spaces that elevate the educational experience.
The completed science wing is now a focal point for the school. Students walk into the space greeted by the luminous ceiling and colourful floors, immediately sensing that this is not an ordinary classroom. Teachers have the tools and facilities they need to deliver engaging, hands-on science education. For us, it’s a project that blends creativity, functionality, and craftsmanship. We are proud to have delivered this in partnership with Caroline Chisholm Catholic College.
