mercy college staffroom_
Metamorphosis - Library to Staffroom
The Staffroom is constructed within the envelope of the original Upper School Library at Mercy College. The project is an initial element in the process of combining three separate schools into a single Kindergarten to Year 12 College.
The brief was developed through extensive consultation with representatives of over 100 staff from the three schools. It provides a communal staff meeting, briefing, presentation and recreation area. A central destination for lower, middle and upper school staff, it has proved a pivotal physical element in the success of the merger.
Accommodation consists of a large communal meeting place with 'break-out' areas for discreet smaller groups, and support amenities including
sick bays, phone booths, and small meeting rooms.
A 'self-service' galley-style kitchen has been installed to streamline staff catering during short staff breaks.
Construction and climate management
Apart from completely stripping and refitting the interior, the primary structural task consisted of replacing the inverted 'V' roof with a simple bowed roof structure. This was achieved within the constraints of existing walls and upper glazed clerestory trusses. The result is an open, light and comfortable environment. The design included:
- New operable glass louvres in clerestory window trusses provide cross ventilation, natural venturi scouring, and evacuation of spent air from the evaporative cooling system
- New roof eaves overhangs prevent summer sun entry whilst maximising winter sun access
- Reverse sweep fans allow warm air to be recycled in winter.
The Staffroom is tightly contained within a series of walkways. It will open to the north to a membrane-covered 'street' providing north-south pedestrian access across the campus.