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ABOUT

BiraBira Early Learning Centre with a capacity for 135 children, is located on Warrigal Road in Cheltenham. With convenient access and transport alternatives, the centre is also in close proximity to one of the business parks in Cheltenham and other nearby industrial-commercial clusters.

This centre is designed to be amongst the very few early learningcenters with special facilities catering to children with behavioural disorders. The pedagogy focuses on sensory play for kids, stimulating senses through connection with nature and play spaces. Working very closely with the owners, R Architecture has driven the design and documentation process, whilst collaborating with them to deliver the desired pedagogical outcome.

DESIGN

The project involves refurbishment of an existing warehouse which is located as part of a group of warehouses. The design concept of BiraBira ELC explores the idea of creating ‘warehouse within a warehouse’. The large space is designed to be broken up into smaller spaces and rooms. There is a transition of spaces blurring the boundaries between inside and outside. Spaces are meticulously designed to separate the age groups but at the same time encourage controlled interaction through art spaces, cooking hub, dedicated library and outdoor play spaces. A continuous shared open play space along the spine is composed of unique play opportunities with grassy knolls, water play and climbing mounds.

Throughout the design process, the owners always emphasized on staff health and development as much as the kids. The centre has dedicated staff recreation zone with secluded outdoor spaces for the all-important break hours.

This centre also has facilities for education and collaboration amongst educators. The centre is equipped with conference rooms and education workshops. The centre has on-board consulting rooms for specialists’ consultation- for children within the centre and external.

DETAILS

STATUS

Completed 2020

LOCATION

Cheltenham, VIC

SERVICES PROVIDED

Architecture & Interior Design

Photography: Tatjana Plitt

R ARCHITECTURE
Victoria
Bira Bira Tour
Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Photography: Tatjana Plitt
Photography: Tatjana Plitt

Professionals used in
BiraBira Early Learning Centre

About the
Professional

R ARCHITECTURE is an Australian architecture practice with a passion for bringing great design to suburban contexts.

We work hard to understand your requirements and share your aspirations. By demonstrating a willingness to listen and collaborate, being accountable and solutions focused, we aim to build a strong, trusting relationship as we guide you through the design and construction process.

Our approach to design is really flexible to your preferences and budget. We don’t pursue a particular style or aesthetic. The only thing we insist on is a great design outcome.

While our project work is diverse, every project delivers on our clients’ dreams and makes an exemplary contribution to the community.