STEM labs are a must in today’s forward-thinking schools. These spaces offer students a place for exploratory learning, creativity, critical thinking and problem solving.
So it was no surprise when Huntingtower School, a top co-educational school in Melbourne’s east, approached us for a dedicated STEM lab.
But Huntingtower didn’t want just any STEM lab. They wanted a space that was as stunning as it was functional – and that met their specific spatial needs.
Here’s how we made their vision a reality.
Searching for a STEM lab that ticks all the boxes
Like many schools, Huntingtower knew the value of STEM learning.
But before 2018, Huntingtower didn’t have a distinct space for their students to enjoy hands-on learning activities across STEM.
So off Huntingtower went, searching for the perfect STEM space.
It didn’t take long before Huntingtower found Harwyn – and fell in love with our stunning pod designs.
But striking design was only one piece of the puzzle for Huntingtower. They also needed a provider who could tailor the pods to their specific needs.
A grand – and precise – vision
Huntingtower wanted a striking STEM lab that would form the centrepiece of their school’s STEM and environmental program.
Their vision? A space that was awe-inspiring, nestled in nature and complementary to the rest of their school buildings.
Above all, the lab had to be functional – allowing students to engage with STEM in the most applied way.
Huntingtower knew the perfect spot on campus for their new STEM lab: a secluded patch of grass with lush pine trees in the background.
But Huntingtower also knew that craning the pod into this area would be no simple task.
A tight installation demands a talented team
Accuracy is of utmost importance in any installation. But it was especially so with Huntingtower.
We had to crane in two 3m x 10m pods and join them onsite. This was a tall ask to achieve in their designated grass area, with our truck drivers having to carefully navigate the pods down narrow paths.
Luckily, we have a highly skilled crew of crane operators and truck drivers who were able to make this difficult task look effortless.
As Huntingtower’s Project Manager said, “the logistics were extremely well planned. The location access was tight… [which meant] the delivery and fitting had to be precise.”
Yet all up, the foundations took a day and a half. And then, within three days, the pod was ready for use.
“At all stages, Harwyn checked in to make sure we were satisfied. We even made some minor changes on the spot – and Harwyn did this at no extra cost. The result was just brilliant.”
A customisation in 2018. A blueprint for our classrooms today.
The tailored pod we produced for Huntingtower in 2018 has become the model to which we build our pods today.
From including a distinct orientation to a dual entrance and solar panels, Huntingtower School had precise modifications in mind.
They also wanted the pod colours to align with their school colours. At the time, we were excited to see the new possibilities for our pods. But now? It’s become the blueprint for how we design our award-winning classrooms of today.
See more photos of this project HERE.
Looking for a prefab STEM lab or other classroom? Harwyn can help. We deliver sleek, ready-made spaces for schools across Australia. To learn more or for a custom quote, call 1300 HARWYN (1300 427 996) – or enquire now.