An innovative learning space known as “The Kiln” was recently completed by Multiplex, a milestone in the construction of the $225 million new Monash Learning and Teaching Building at Monash University’s Clayton campus in Victoria.
The new Learning and Teaching Building was designed by high-profile architects John Wardle Architects and spans four levels, providing a total of 29,227 square metres of formal and informal learning space and contemporary staff workspace. It aims to facilitate learning across all disciplines and will also be home to the Faculty of Education and the Office of Learning and Teaching.
“The Kiln” is a signature feature of the Learning and Teaching Building’s design. It is a series of large brick-clad areas containing modern learning spaces at the centre of the new building. These bricked spaces are suspended above ground level so students can occupy them underneath, imitating an amplified conversation pit.
According to the architects, these canyon-like brick formations are a reference to the landscape theme that informs much of the design for the building, with the brick elements striking visual markers that draw the eye towards the timber sawtooth roof and skylights.
“The Kiln” represents the shift from traditional learning spaces to a more contemporary mode.
“This innovative learning space is a testament to the progressive vision Monash University maintains for its students, and we are honoured to play a vital role in its delivery,” said Graham Cottam, Regional Managing Director of Multiplex Victoria.
“The Kiln” took approximately 1.5 months to build with over 35,000 bricks used.
The Learning and Teaching Building Project also includes a four level basement carpark for 830 vehicles, a bus terminal with 16 designated bus bays, and a 27,000 square metre landscaped outdoor area.
Multiplex anticipates completion of the Learning and Teaching Building Project in February, 2018.
Multiplex recently delivered Monash University’s $145 million student accommodation precinct, comprising four new residential buildings providing a combined total of more than 1,000 studio apartments, with associated retail and student informal learning spaces.
The contractor has also been responsible for delivering some of the most high-profile and technically advanced education facilities in Victoria including the $200 million Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), Swanston Academic Building in Melbourne’s CBD and the $100 million Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning Building (FABP) in Parkville.