Leibler Yavneh College Hall

Leibler Yavneh College Hall

Category: Commercial

Owner: Leibler Yavneh College
Location: Elsternwick VIC
Architect: McIldowie Partners
Structural engineer: Klopfer Dobos
Builder: 2Construct
Bricklayer: FVP Construction

Brick manufacturer: Austral Bricks
Product: Burlesque Smashing Blue, Nubrik Classic230 Pressed Red

Project description:

This is the first new building in decades in a very prominent location on the Jewish school campus. The neighbouring campus anchor building, a late-Victorian, heritage-listed, red-brick administration centre, creates the arrival experience for school visitors.

The hall continues the brickwork theme but reinterpreted in full-gloss bricks. The bright blue brickwork and broad glazing boldly proclaim the building's western entry point.

Pressed red bricks were chosen for the northern elevation which screens a service zone and is adjacent to an active play area. Brickwork was chosen here as much for its resilience and impact resistance.

The solid base of blue brickwork continues on the eastern face with seating, tables and shade structures forming a sociable space for student passive recreation. A broad, stack-bonded band runs continuously through the blue brickwork above window head height.

Internally, the hall has a flat-floored, multi-purpose auditorium with associated support spaces. Above are staff rooms and classrooms with breakout areas. The hall attaches to its neighbours through a series of connections at a range of levels.

The Leibler Yavneh College Hall officially opened in September 2010 and has created its own identity as a sharp, innovative, crisp-looking building that expresses the school's leadership and direction.