The STEAM Centre is the fourth new Building for Melba College as part of the masterplan for a ‘replacement’ school.

The two storey building, while stand alone, is connected by an elevated walkway/colonnade which allows sheltered access to the other buildings on both on ground and first floor. The articulation of this walkway becomes a major element in the façade design and visually connects the new building with the others.

On entering the building, learning in action is on display by using glass in the corner locations of art studios. These central spaces are where Art and Science merge. There is also a makers lab open to the central space for both science and art projects.

The science component consists of four laboratories (Chemistry, Physics, Biology and General) with a central preparation room. Again, display is a prominent feature with a lot of glass faced cabinetry.

Connection with outside is very important and as such Technology and Art spaces are designed in a ‘U’ shape and share a common courtyard. As well as allowing students to bring their projects outside to work on, the court yard also operates as a social space with servery and barbeque function facilities.

Technology consists of Design Theory space (quiet), technology labs (noisy) and are situated and treated acoustically. Acoustic panels are positioned throughout and are designed for visual interest as well as performance.

The first floor is dedicated to Visual Communications., The rooms have curved glass corners which ensure internal activity is on display. The spaces open onto a learning street, so the central circulation space can be fully ultiised for learning also.