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Clonard College - Oak Centre STEM Building by LiFE Architecture and Urban Design

Project name:
Oak Centre STEM Building at Clonard College
Architecture firm:
LiFE Architecture and Urban Design (formerly CHT Architects)
Location:
Wadawurrung Country, Herne Hill, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
Photography:
Elizabeth Schiavello
Principal architect:
Joshua McAlister
Design team:
LiFE Architecture and Urban Design
Collaborators:
Sora Interiors (Interior Design), Rendine Constructions (Builder)
Interior design:
Sora Interiors
Built area:
Approximately 1,500 m²
Site area:
Design year:
2022 - 2023
Completion year:
2024
Civil engineer:
O'Niell Group
Structural engineer:
O'Niell Group
Environmental & MEP:
LiFE Architecture and Urban Design
Landscape:
Site Image Landscape Architects
Lighting:
About Space & Pierlite
Supervision:
Rendine Constructions
Visualization:
LiFE Architecture and Urban Design
Tools used:
Construction:
Rendine Constructions
Material:
Pre-cast concrete, operable glazing, aluminium battens on facade
Budget:
Undisclosed
Client:
Clonard College
Status:
Completed
Typology:
Educational Architecture › University, STEM Education Facility

LIFE Architecture and Urban Design (formerly CHT Architects) is thrilled to announce the completion of The Oak Centre, the first phase of Clonard College’s 10-year Master Plan. Designed to unify and enhance the campus, The Oak Centre STEM building connects Clonard’s north and south sides, fostering a cohesive educational environment.

The Oak Centre’s design strengthens campus connectivity and visibility, introducing clear sight lines and unifying previously separated areas. LIFE Architecture Director Joshua McAlister shared, “The Oak Centre embodies Clonard College’s commitment to innovative learning. Collaborating closely with the college, we’ve crafted spaces that support both present needs and future educational growth, creating a vibrant, connected campus.”

Honoring Clonard’s heritage, the landscape around the campus’s iconic oak trees was thoughtfully designed, integrating historical elements while opening views to Corio Bay. The new STEM facility within The Oak Centre replaces existing science labs, offering flexible learning spaces with cutting-edge adaptability for diverse teaching methods. Partnering with SORA Interiors, LIFE Architecture emphasised warmth and wellness in the building interiors, blending muted tones and soft textures to create an inviting atmosphere.

Future stages of Clonard’s Master Plan will continue enhancing educational spaces, connectivity, and campus growth, aligning with the college’s values and long-term vision.


By Liliana Alvarez

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