Cutting-edge STEM facility takes Northern Beaches Christian School into the future
Northern Beaches Christian School in Sydney is now home to a cutting-edge, three-story STEM building, known as the O’Sullivan Science Centre, allowing the school to continue providing a world-class education for its students. As a leading builder within the education space, Rohrig is proud to have completed this exceptional facility, which blends architectural excellence with real-world functionality.
Designed by WMK Architecture and project managed by Midson Group, this inspiring new learning facility forms a dynamic and richly-appointed educational hub. The O’Sullivan Science Centre features:
- Nine state-of-the-art science laboratories
- Two classrooms and two seminar rooms
- A dedicated server room, chemical store room, and lab preparation room
- General learning areas and amenities
- Two bridges connecting to adjacent facilities
- A stunning terrace garden with timber seating
- A landscaped outdoor learning area and playscape
- A greenhouse for hands-on learning
The building itself stands as an architectural centrepiece within the pristine school grounds. Its intricate stepped glazed facade, exposed CHS steel truss roof, and off-form concrete columns and walls create a modern, energised exterior. Inside, students and teachers are greeted with inviting light-filled spaces, including laboratories equipped with stone-top benches, and built-in joinery units with TVs and fume cupboards.
Our construction expertise was put to the test across this complex project, which is where our results-driven team excels. To achieve the desired architectural finish, the team developed an innovative site-based pre-cast column concept that allowed for a seamless Class 2 finish without cold joints, saving time and resources.
The installation of the drainage system within the columns required ingenuity and precision, too. Our team expertly suspended each column over a pedestal, allowing for the intricate welding of the siphonic system into the formwork. The installation of the roof, with its complex truss system, also demanded precise planning and execution.
“This project required innovative solutions to complex problems, from the roof to the pre-cast column concept we put together,” said Rohrig General Manager, David Campbell.
“Of course, there’s no better feeling than watching a complex project come together. We’re proud of the end-result at Northern Beaches Christian School, and we can’t wait to see the facility enjoyed by students.”
Throughout the project, the Rohrig team demonstrated a deep understanding of the school’s needs and values. A ‘tools down’ approach was adopted during prayer times, traffic control measures were implemented at high-traffic access points, and noise was kept to a minimum, ensuring minimal disruption to the school community.
The O’Sullivan Science Centre at Northern Beaches Christian School stands as a shining example of our dedication to educational excellence – a facility that we hope will inspire the next generation science, technology, engineering and mathematics leaders.