The mandate of Iona College in sunny Queensland is to prepare young men to make a difference in the world.

And what better way to do that than to surround its students with glorious natural light and an interplay of framing that allows the outside and inside spaces to become fluid?

The reasoning is simple: studies have shown that classrooms with access to natural light and views of the outdoors can improve academic performance, concentration, and attendance. Natural light can also improve mood and reduce stress. It's a fundamental element in shaping the built environment and enhancing the experience of a building's occupants.

To ensure the project’s success, the role of the window and door fabricator, Breezeview Windows, was crucial. The fabricator recommended a combination of Hawkesbury commercial multi-fold doors, Swan commercial doors, and ProGlide high-performance sliding doors, along with Hunter Evo flush glazing and Solaire louvres. The latter was chosen to ensure an abundance of natural airflow that helps control interior temperatures and keeps young, enquiring minds alert.

In addition, by reducing the need for artificial lighting, the energy consumption, and associated costs are reduced.

Without a doubt, the window and door systems used in Iona College are a testament to the role of natural light in education.

Project details

Project: Iona College – Provence Centre, Lindum QLD

Architect: Conrad Gargett

Builder: Tomkins

Fabricator: Breezeview Windows

Photographer: Troy Sanders

Alspec Products:

  • Hunter Evo 101.6mm Double Flush Glazed Framing
  • Hunter Evo 150mm Single Flush Glazed Framing
  • McArthur Evo 101.6mm Centre Pocket Framing
  • ProGlide® High Performance Sliding Door
  • Solaire™ Fixed Louvres