Triumph at the 2023 Master Builders Awards: St Joseph’s College wins Master Builders award for excellence in construction
In a momentous celebration of excellence in construction, the St Joseph’s College Ferntree Gully project proudly took home the coveted “Excellence in Construction of Commercial Buildings $20M-$30M” award at the esteemed Master Builders Awards on Friday night.
Nestled at the base of the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, St Joseph’s College is a renowned secondary Catholic boys’ school with a rich history and commitment to academic excellence. The awarded project marked a significant milestone in the institution’s journey by undertaking a comprehensive redevelopment that aimed to enhance its facilities and enrich the learning experience for its students.
The undertaking unfolded in two distinct stages, both of which encapsulated a fusion of modern design elements and innovative construction techniques. The crowning jewels of the redevelopment were the newly erected double-storey structures – the Science and Year 7 Building and the Arts and Senior School Building.
These buildings, each a testament to innovative design and meticulous construction, feature striking louvered façades, curtain wall glazing, and shading fin elements, creating a modern and visually appealing environment. The interiors of these structures have been thoughtfully designed to foster a dynamic and collaborative learning atmosphere, featuring state-of-the-art facilities including science laboratories, digital and technology spaces, green screen studios, media rooms, and sound booths.
A key highlight of the project is the inclusion of reptile and fish tanks, complemented by central amphitheaters and exhibition spaces, all adorned with hardwood timber flooring and wall linings. The attention to detail is evident, with automated blind systems ensuring a comfortable and adaptable learning experience for the students.
Externally, the project comes to life with a harmonious blend of design elements, including concrete pavers, exposed aggregate finishes, feature seating, water features, glazed timber canopies, and carefully curated planted areas. These outdoor spaces create an inviting and vibrant environment for the school community to enjoy.
“Building Engineering brought to life magnificent structures in the heart of Ferntree Gully. Our Year 7 students are thriving in ‘Francis de Sales Cross’ with STEM, IT, Digital Technologies, and Science. Despite COVID and its impacts, Building Engineering was able to navigate its way through many challenges during the construction phase. The strong collaboration which took place enabled so much to be achieved.” Cathy Livingstone, Principal of St Joseph’s College Ferntree Gully
This exceptional achievement at the Master Builders Awards is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the project team to deliver a contemporary facility that will enhance the educational experience at St Joseph’s College.
Congratulations to everyone involved in making this vision a reality and for creating an inspiring space for generations of students to come.
Building Engineering extends congratulations to all award winners.