The Illawarra Grammar School is a Christian independent co-ed school catering for prep through to Year 12, situated in the Illawarra region. The Senior Campus is perched on upper most part of the site off Powell street and Block M in particular enjoys 180 degree views of Mt Keira.

PMDL Architecture & Design was engaged by the College in 2016 to develop a masterplan for redevelopment across the College’s three campuses. The masterplan identified that the development of Block M as Prototype building presented the most appropriate first stage of development for the College; the study identified a range of other opportunities and facility requirements that need to be addressed following. 

The Block M refurbishments have transformed a once inward facing two storey building with external stair and double loaded corridor. The building is now connected via a generous internal staircase and void, with large and flexible collaborative areas that enjoy natural light and capture views of Mt Keira. Classrooms feature glass and operative partitions to make learning visible and allow for flexible team teaching. Break out spaces throughout Ground and First floor encourage and facilitate self directed and/or group learning. Whilst Ground floor classrooms enjoy greater connectivity with outdoor field.

The exterior architectural approach is subtle and composed. A contemporary statement that responds to the existing building and surrounds.

CLIENT The Illawarra Grammar School

LOCATION Mangerton, NSW, Australia

STATUS Completed

YEAR 2019

SCALE 900sqm