Study Group

For international education conglomerate Study Group, acquiring new space on Little Collins Street in Melbourne presented an opportunity to better consolidate several colleges into a single cohesive campus where knowledge could be shared in a fun and relaxed way. The open learning environment, designed by V-Arc, adopts four bold colours to identify each of the four colleges on site and creates a sense of belonging for students.

Study Group engaged Schiavello for a variety of furniture solutions to complement the vibrant education environment. Close to 1,000 lightweight Hero Chairs fill classrooms, while colourful Tom and La La Stools support colour schemes in various breakout areas. Teachers use Krossi workstations and hot desks and privacy is achieved with slide-on dividers.

As a design and construct (D&C) project, Schiavello Construction's VIC team also worked closely with the client and consultant team to meet the design intent. As head contractor, Schiavello oversaw the transformation of five levels of former office space into various learning areas. Dedicated zones were creatively partitioned through 3.5km of rope walls and the angular use of colour on both floors and ceilings.

The project saw the construction of audiovisual integrated classrooms, shower rooms, student and staff breakout areas and a dedicated prayer room. Joinery features throughout all floors, including reception and within course-specific treatment facilities, while decorative, perforated metal screens made in-house by Schiavello subsidiary Metcon, provide protection barriers along stairwells. The project also includes partition work, exposing ceilings and external light box signage.

Photography by Jaime Diaz-Berrio