Hume Early Learning Centre

The Hume Learning Centre by Porter Architects has been designed to be a community based facility with close attention to the landscape, sustainability, learning, congregation and locally sourced textured materials.

This building has been designed so that the occupant is constantly engaged with the surrounding landscape. A secured landscaped courtyard is located at the centre of the plan with internal walkways surrounding, whilst screened landscaped areas to the north and south of the building add additional outdoor learning and recreational areas. These areas also become landscape beacons in place of looking out to a highway or an unattractive building.

The plan is zoned into two areas, namely the north pavilion (more open for learning and public) and the south pavilion (more private for staffing and meetings). The pavilion’s span from east to west so that north light is maximised to all areas of building, natural cross ventilation is harnessed and constant visual engagement to the secured landscaped courtyard.

The secured landscaped courtyard becomes the building’s pivot whilst the activities of the precinct surround. The courtyard becomes an area for community congregation, gathering space, bbq area, a children’s secured playground, learning and sunlight.

Materials proposed include locally sourced stone, locally sourced timber and glazing. The stone and timber possess warm natural textures that highlight integration with the landscape. The stone also possess appropriate thermal mass qualities. Glazing is used to generate natural light and operable windows for natural ventilation which minimises the stresses on energy consumption.

The overall intention of this building is to create an environment for young children and the community which harnesses security, flexibility, the landscape, positive learning, congregation, creativity and sustainability.