Tertiary education has seen significant changes over the last decade with a clear shift from teacher-focused learning to a model that centres around students and a collaborative environment for study.

For architects and interior designers this presents the challenge of creating spaces that meet the needs of both teachers and students and not only ensure they provide relevant functionality but are also dynamic, innovative and inspiring. For Melbourne-based designer, Jackson Interiors they certainly achieved this in creating several spaces of excellence for Monash University’s City Campus and International Business School.

In a highly collaborative design process with Monash University, Jackson Interiors required materials that would provide a diverse and flexible learning hub yet inhibit core qualities of sustainability, versatility and durability. It was at this point ForestOne was engaged to provide a solution of eco-friendly design with DesignerPly.

Monash University | International Business School
With the intention of creating a clear and logical arrangement of space with key destinations for Monash University’s International Business School, Jackson Interiors needed to be mindful that the outlay and atmosphere needed to act as a transitional space between both a university and workplace.

To emulate this and ensure a fluid and cohesive design was achieved the urban campus features ForestOne’s DesignerPly, where the central pathway, classrooms, library and administrative offices utilise the diversity of DesignerPly to connect all spaces and with its warm palette promotes a professional learning environment.

The classrooms and lecture theatres take on a new form from traditional tertiary spaces with a flexible layout on a single level. Yet, with the visual punch of the Perforated Birch DesignerPly wall at the front of the room this remains the central point of focus for educational content while also providing noise-cancelling properties with its acoustic backing. This being essential for a bustling learning hub that serves thousands of students.

The beauty of DesignerPly’s lightweight and strong characteristics also make it the perfect material for ceiling applications. Throughout focused study areas Perforated Birch DesignerPly lines the ceiling to unite all learning spaces and ensure a sound-insulated environment is achieved.

The diversity of DesignerPly gives it an A+ as it also allowed Jackson Interiors to extend their creativity for joinery applications within the library. With its unique cross-layer structure providing excellent strength and natural markings, modern crafted seated boxes were designed with Perforated Birch DesignerPly to create a fun yet professional atmosphere.

Architect: Jackson Clements Burrows
Designer: Jackson Interiors
Photography: Shannon McGrath