Education project

Huntingtower School Performing Arts Centre

Client:
Huntingtower School
Location:
Mt Waverley | Victoria Australia
Delivered:
2021

At the heart of Huntingtower School’s Mount Waverley campus, the new Huntingtower School Performing Arts Centre seats up to 750 people, with capacity for a 160-person choir and full orchestra. The facility reflects the school’s strong commitment to music and performance, providing a dedicated venue for assemblies and major events.

The two-tiered auditorium is supported by a full suite of associated facilities, including wings, loading dock, green room, changing areas, foyers and direct links to the existing drama and VCE centre. The curved form of the building defines its architectural character, expressed through a precast feature façade, faceted full-height glazing and cantilevered staircases. Internally, timber feature walls and carefully integrated lighting create warmth and focus, while an elevated lecture stand and flexible performance platforms allow the space to adapt to a range of uses.

Technical performance was central to the design. High-level steel gantries, a dedicated orchestra pit, and carefully planned mechanical air distribution systems are integrated discreetly within the lower level and beneath the seating. Careful attention to sightlines, acoustics and material selection ensures the auditorium functions as well as it presents. Positioned prominently at the front of the campus, the drum-shaped building establishes a strong civic presence while delivering a refined, high-quality environment for performance and gathering.