AQUINAS GRAMMAR SCHOOL
Client
Trustees of Aquinas Grammar School, Department of Education
Completion
2003
GPS
54°34'36.8N 5°54'23.6W
This school building is organised into two gently curving accommodation wings which are set facing each other to enclose a central double height atrium. This space between these wings is the heart of the building; a glazed roof allows natural light and ventilation to reach the depth of the plan and between classes and at recreation times the atrium transforms into a social hub and main circulation space.
Single storey satellite buildings extend from the main wings to provide accommodation for specialist departments and if required are envisaged as the model for future expansion from the current enrolment of 770 pupils.
Site landscaping was integral to the design; the building nestles into the undulating site contours. The classrooms are organised around the external perimeter so that they benefit from views across external recreation space to the Castlereagh Hills beyond.