Victoria
R ARCHITECTURE undertook site investigations and feasibility studies over many years to identify an appropriate site. It became clear that some out-of-the-box thinking was required to create a replicable model. Bira Bira ELC demonstrates an inventive, adaptive repurposing of an existing warehouse shell, creating an exemplary learning environment in size, configuration, and indoor/outdoor connectivity; the layout of Bira Bira ELC facilitates a calmer transition in children’s learning and development. The outdoor play area is centred and visible upon arrival, providing children with comfort rather than confusion when experiencing hallways and rooms.
The outdoor space is a crucial part of the educational vision that facilitates flexibility, access to natural light and creates an environment that dignifies collegiality and better support educators in the workplace that fosters knowledge-sharing with external specialists, as well as appropriate areas for withdrawal and respite during the work day, and positively influence the development of other centres.
Bira Bira is an environment in which children can experience the wonder of life through a process of social, physical, and intellectual transformation. R ARCHITECTURE brought our ideal learning centre to life as they understood our passion and could visualise our intentions. The result was a collaboration informed by their architectural expertise and our own training to create an engaging environment for children to learn, grow and develop, while also creating a welcoming workplace for our educators to enjoy. We now have a beautiful, converted warehouse space where we can share our passion for this unique innovative early learning model.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
