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The Katsumata Centre at Kardinia International College was created as a multipurpose facility which symbolizes the school’s evolution regarding the educational delivery and the culture expressed through it.

The concept initiated as a tribute to the founder of the school Mr. Yoshimaro Katsumata. The planning was difficult and extended on a long period of time; the first schemes presented a theater containing 1600 seats. The utility and financial constraints lead to the final plans which represent an adaptation to the needs and budget allocated: a theater and a sporting facility combined which can both be used without compromising functionality. The transformation can take place in under 15 minutes. Through mecanised control, the seats can retract, the lightning change and the stadium can transform in a theater with 1200 seating capacity.

The form was generated with a contemporary grid; the unique facade stands out through the dynamic effect it creates. The ensemble incorporates a combination of sustainable strategies to minimize its carbon footprint, including censor controlled lighting, water collection, storage and insulated composite exterior linings. The interior treatment to the foyer was achieved in conjunction with graphic artists/designers, the school and the Katsumata family to reflect the history of the founder and his family. Through this montage of ideas a decorative and factual motif featuring layered glass, biographical information and a hand written Japanese poem of particular symbolic reference, has been used to pay homage to the schools founder.

Whilst the strange shape of the building might not be appropriate for an elderly day center, it is perfect for a high school, a place filled with young, modern aspiring people. The same idea is expressed through the usage of large glazing that defines the look of the facade and provides an abundance of light for the interior environment. The architects have correlated the exterior design with the interior atmosphere; the same irregular shapes and dynamic attributes can be found inside, making this a very unitary project with a clear aim and design, powerful enough to make an impression and prove that it is indeed, something different.

Homesthetics conclusion:

A very well intended project from which many people will benefit and defined by a very good and interesting design worthy of modern architecture.

Architects: James Deans & Associates
Location: Bell Post Hill, Geelong, Australia
Project Architects: James Deans, Mike Nowson
Client: Kardinia International College
Year: 2011
Photographs: Tim Loft