Location: Hampton
Client: St Mary’s Primary School
The image of a thought bubble was the starting point for this project, which incorporates a ‘floating’ translucent element, reinforcing the concept that imagination is an essential part of learning. Hovering on a masonry base, the cloud structure provides a focal point that ties in to an ancient painting titled ‘Virgin and Child with Balaam the Prophet’ from the late 2nd century (located in the catacomb of Priscilla in Rome), which is referenced in the brick graphic to announce the multipurpose hall entry. A bold line of text in brick repeats ‘Mary’ and ‘Mother of God’ in different languages and scripts.
This project incorporates a multipurpose hall, classroom, staff room, library, tennis club room, and information and communication technology area. White translucent poly-carbonate cladding provides the learning spaces with controlled light, maintains good thermal qualities and responds to the all-white existing heritage buildings.