Bricks from PGH Bricks & Pavers were selected by the architects
involved in the design of Brigidine College's Performing Arts and Science
Building in St Ives, Sydney. The building recently won the Excellence Award for
Ornamental/Landscape Brickwork from the Masonry Contractors Association, as
well as the Category Award for Private Schools Construction ($10m+) at the
Master Builders Association Awards.
Operating as an independent Catholic girls’ high school, Brigidine
College prides itself on being a forward-thinking and progressive place of
learning. The College appointed Fulton Trotter Architects to design a master plan
concept for the school to continue providing state-of-the-art facilities for
its students. The master plan takes its inspiration from the school motto ‘fortiteretsuaviter’
or 'Strength and Gentleness'.
The new Performing Arts and Science Building, which is part of the master
plan, displays this 'strength and gentleness' in equal proportions through its
distinctive exterior. PGH bricks including Gledswood Blend, Concord and
Chocolatto have played an important and essential part in helping communicate
this design intent. The choice of the brick palette was inspired by the
remnants of Duffy Forest, a prominent feature at the front of the college
grounds.
The building structure uses two subtle and contrasting PGH bricks,
predominantly Chocolatto bricks with a single band of Concord, both laid in a
stretcher bond.
PGH bricks have also been installed in the soft
landscaping and gardens, a key feature of the College's architecture. PGH
Gledswood Blend dry pressed bricks are used to reinforce the 'gentleness' of
the school motto, with organically shaped brick walls forming planter beds
around the outdoor spaces. These distinctive feature walls also double as
seating areas for social interaction.
