The result of extensive discussions with Shirley Primary, Stephenson & Turner’s site-wide masterplan arrived at a simple solution comprising a new L-shaped block with two learning hubs, Mahuri and Rakau, for 180 students each – joined at the knee of the form by a large multipurpose hall. Each hub has a large maker space to encourage food technology and science experimentation.

Alongside the renewal of salvageable buildings at the school, our feasibility study addressed the school’s earthquake damaged Dominion Block leading to a new building that could address far more than just the teaching space needs.
Mindful that the previous Dominion Block presented its backside to Shirley Road, our new learning hub addressed the street with a far more neighbourly and welcoming façade. Full height windows into the building provide a dynamic presence to passersby whilst maintaining an acoustic, secure boundary to the street.

At the inward-facing corner of the ‘L’, the multi-purpose hall and adjoining library act as a shared connective tissue between the two hubs. These shared facilities are designed to function independently for community use outside of school hours, enhancing the value of the space for both the school and its wider community.