Pascoe Vale Primary School STEAM | Kosloff Architecture

Pascoe Vale Primary School STEAM building is linked to the previously completed Kosloff Architecture administration building and new entry to the school and completes the extension to the existing neo-classical building designed by the Chief Architect of the Public Works Department (1922-1929), E. Evan Smith. This project, which has been undertaken over several years, provides a new civic interface for the school.

Central to this project has been an extensive cultural consultation process with Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, and in particular Wurundjeri elder, Aunty Doreen Garvey-Wandin, on all elements of the building and the landscape. As part of this consultation process the building has been officially named ‘Moondani’, meaning embrace in Woiwurrung. This is a reference to the way the building encircles an existing peppercorn tree on the site, but also relates to the idea of embracing learning and discovery.

Further to this, key classrooms have also been named, including: Bargoongagat (gathering), a presentation space used for teaching and learning. Mungka (maker), a maker room, which is fitted with kitchen facilities, AV capability, equipment for food technology, robotics, and other science related activities. Durn-durn (mind), the library space and booeegigat (create), the art room.

Embedded within the Pascoe Vale Primary School STEAM building are cues waiting to be uncovered.

A representation of the solar system adorns the south façade, the discs providing true size comparison of the planets. The arrangement of windows, doors and display boxes to the north façade have been determined by the proportions of the Fibonacci spiral and include a sun dial that tracks time. A star map of lights illuminates the library and multipurpose space, and floor and ceiling fractal patterns adorn an internal amphitheater.

Some clues are immediately recognisable, others require students to investigate and discover. The intention is that the building ignite a sense of curiosity and celebrate creativity within the discipline of the arts and science.