Concept
As Principal Design Consultant, Tectura collaborated with Chisholm and the Victorian Department of Education to develop a Tech School concept inspired by a diverse range of environments including immersive galleries, co-working hubs, tech startups, and forward-thinking workplace designs. The goal was to create a space that feels distinctly adult, intentionally distancing itself from more traditional school environments.
The architectural design of the building is informed by the cultural and natural identity of the Greater Dandenong region, with a strong emphasis on honouring traditional lands and enduring custodianship of the Bunurong people. Drawing inspiration from local ecosystems and Indigenous landscapes, the design fosters a meaningful connection to Country and celebrates the continuous presence and wisdom of First Nations culture.
A stand-out feature of the landscaping will be a yarning circle where students will see artworks depicting the 7 seasons of the Bunurong people's seasonal calendar. Students will learn how the Bunurong people move through and live on Country from shore to mountain forest as the seasons change.
Native, drought-resistant plants have been selected to reflect the diverse ecology of the area. Additionally, subtle references to Middle Eastern and Asian design elements are thoughtfully integrated to create a welcoming and familiar environment for the school’s diverse student cohort, including those from refugee backgrounds.
The Tech School will include a central courtyard designed as a peaceful oasis where students can unwind between programs. This open-air space not only enhances the sense of calm at the heart of the school but also improves natural lighting throughout the interior. Its design supports passive cooling by allowing cool air to accumulate overnight and circulate during the day, helping to regulate indoor temperatures during warmer months.
View the architectural design renders below:
