This work has received much applause for the preservation and improvement of this South Australian architectural landmark.

IN BRIEF

Transform the aging facility into a modern multi-purpose venue that can be used for formal or informal functions and add a companion structure to the original building to be used for smaller functions. Use a minimalist approach and update only where absolutely necessary, making sure that as much of the original design is preserved as possible, and that existing features are conserved and original materials reused whenever practical.

ARCHITECT’S WORDS

The Prince Alfred College Assembly Hall, now known as the Anzac Hall, has a long standing and important place to the character of the College. It has served as an icon of modern architecture in contrast to its historic setting since completion in 1963. Out of respect for the original architect of the Assembly Hall and leader of modern architecture in South Australia, Jack Hobbs McConnell, the conceptual framework of this project was clear from the beginning. The design approach was one of cautiousness, with a primary objective to change as little as necessary to meet the client brief – a guiding principle of the Burra Charter. Just as the Assembly Hall, as it was once known, was a building of it’s time, our approach was to express the culture, values and material fabric of today.

The Hall is significant for its association with post war functionalist and international style architecture. It stands as a lasting outcome of careful analysis to functional requirements and material treatment of its time. The construction is of reinforced concrete, structural steel and masonry veneer. Externally the building is clad with grey marble and red brick. Internally terrazzo andparquetry floor surfaces accompany solid and veneer timber detailing. This example of meticulous attention to detailing is rarely seen in buildings of similar era in South Australia.

In primary relationship to the refurbished Anzac Hall, the new Piper Pavilion is accompanied by recently restored heritage buildings, a sporting oval, an entry to the secondary school and sits at an axial relationship to the Chapel building. The height, visual scale and transparency are all respectful to its close companions.

The Hall had been poorly maintained for many years, had ineffective heating, inadequate lighting and a limiting foyer space. Our design response was aligned with that of its built form objective - provide as little as possible. The expanded program to the hall is compatible with its existing use and is divided into two externally and internally identifiable elements.

Early consultant collaboration was important to a successful project outcome. Integration of new mechanical, electrical and fire sprinkler systems to the hall was managed effectively through successful on site discussion between the architect, contractor, engineer and trade contractors. One of the key principles of environmental sustainability is often forgotten. The concept of reduction is a universal theme to this project. By adapting and reusing the Hall and designing an open plan Pavilion addition with minimal fixed internal fitout, the overall environment impact is reduced significantly. The materials specified are hard wearing and require little or no maintenance.

The Anzac Hall and Piper Pavilion are the outcome of a detailed design brief, highly compressed programme, and a multitude of specialist consultants. It has produced a high degree of user flexibility within a framework of adaptation and reverence for an enduring example of modern architecture adjusted to suit contemporary use.

ACCOLADES

• 2011 Australian Institute of Architects, South Australia, David Saunders Award for Heritage

PRODUCTS

GLAZING
ADELAIDE GLASS AND ALUMINIUM

ALUMINIUM WINDOWS
ADELAIDE GLASS AND ALUMINIUM

ALUMINIUM CLADDING
PBH CONTRACTING SERVICES

PARQUETRY FLOORING
CONTRACT CARPETS

BLUESTONE
HERITAGE STONE

METAL DECKING
ALIEN ROOFING

ROOFING
ALIEN ROOFING

STAINLESS STEEL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
PLYMPTON STEEL 

PAVILION BLINDS
SA COMMERCIAL BLINDS

CBUS SYSTEM
NIRMAR ELECTRICAL

ACOUSTIC CEILINGS
METRO CEILINGS

MECHANICAL DIFFUSERS
PROMPT AIR