International Education Services
433 Boundary Street, Spring Hill
Challenge
Following the successful design and completion of their neighbouring two level campus fit out, WMK was engaged by Brisbane based International Education Services (IES) to design a 3,000sqm educational learning and corporate headquarters facility across two storeys of an existing office building to support up to 600 students and 60 staff.
The client’s brief was to incorporate IES’ recent art acquisitions and ever-growing Indigenous art collection throughout the new educational facility. The goal was to create a unique learning environment showcasing the art collection, whilst maintaining consistency of design language across both campus locations to retain a holistic brand image for IES.
Solution
The Indigenous Artwork, sourced from a series of artistic communities across Australia, inspired the dynamic education fit out. Artwork is showcased throughout the design through the incorporation of artworks within feature portal graphic elements, use of patterned fabrics, inclusion of customised glazing graphics as well as on display walls throughout the public areas and within dedicated gallery spaces.
The design also references back to the land and nature, through the extrapolation of built form framing and vertical feature elements creating ‘cave and forest-like’ spaces for focus study nooks, learning booths and large collaborative huddle areas.
This design language also assists with wayfinding and differentiation between the various types of spaces. Flexible furniture throughout supports the students’ social and study needs.
Outcome
WMK has created an engaging and inspirational campus environment that provides amenity to support the ever increasing number of students to ensure IES can continue to grow and flourish.
The project represents an important milestone for IES and the relationships they have built with the Australian Indigenous cultural art scene through investing in and showcasing the national talents at their new campus headquarters.
WMK has successfully designed a space which invites curiosity, reflection and the gathering of minds into a space which supports learning and collaboration.
