Cabra Dominican College Case Study

Reflecting history in new design

After years of planning, construction of the new music suite at Cabra Dominican College has been completed. Following the expansion of the student library hub and St Marys inclusive education centre, the new music building introduces a modern element to the school while successfully tying into the surrounding heritage buildings. The new facility was designed by Russell & Yelland Architects, while Kennett Builders executed the construction with the support of Commercial Fitouts Australia (CFA) who chose to work with ADX Depot for the supply of all linings materials.

The ceiling is designed with high performing ceiling tiles that absorb sound during music lessons and rehearsals. The functionality in the form of the space is accentuated with curtains which enable flexibility of the room for different classes such as drama. Students now have the space for quick access to instruments eliminating time that would previously be lost to set up depending on the class.

Products supplied for this project:

Moving upstairs, the geometric design of the window is shown coming to life from the inside. The team at Commercial Fitouts Australia have done a great job to ensure that the job was finished with attention to detail to ensure that this feature window gets the attention it deserves. On the exterior, the window is mirrored. Cabra Dominican College Business Manager Paul Angley explains, “we wanted the design of the new facility to blend in with the surrounding heritage buildings while achieving a modern design.” With the mirrored window and black exterior, the building achieves visually interesting features on its own yet shows the reflection of the surrounding heritage buildings so no matter where you are looking, you are constantly seeing a literal reflection of the school’s history in modern design.

The auditorium was an inspiration through every stage of the build. Studco Steel Stud, followed by the full suite of Knauf plasterboard for the multitude of different purposes, all supplied by ADX Depot, all came together to create a stand-out performance space. Until this facility was completed, music students had to endure transitional music spaces for the last four years.

CFA managing director Richard Tremain says, “this project has showcased everyone’s excellent workmanship and we’re pleased to have worked with Kennett Builders and ADX Depot to achieve it.”

With the auditorium’s acoustics, designed with a stepped timber ceiling, the project has been completed with a keen eye for detail throughout the whole design and construction process. ADX Depot Sales Manager, Daniel Wright, says “it’s projects like these that make us stand back and really take in what an impact our products have contributed to. We’re pleased to have contributed to this smoothly run project and seeing it finished makes us excited for the school and students that they can enjoy such a wonderful facility.”

Cabra Dominican College is continuing their development with their re-build of Caleruega Hall, the school gymnasium, which will become home to a larger variety of indoor sporting facilities. It’s exciting to see another historic school upgrading and providing better education opportunities.