Kaurna County
South Australia
When Matthews Architects took on this project, it felt like uncovering a geode—a tough, timeworn shell concealing untapped potential. The Year 12 Common Area at Prince Alfred College, rich in heritage detailing, was underutilised and needed reinvention.
Once the college dining hall, this rear, lower-level space had become an informal hangout with mismatched furniture and makeshift kitchen facilities—a shadow of its possibilities.
PAC engaged Matthews Architects to transform it into a vibrant hub for study and social interaction. The design intent was to align the interior with the building’s distinguished exterior, creating a cohesive aesthetic that honoured its history while preparing students for life beyond high school.
Through thoughtful design and reprogramming, the Year 12 Learning Common now supports academic focus and community connection, reflecting Prince Alfred College’s commitment to shaping future-ready students.
Prince Alfred College engaged Matthews Architects to reimagine an underutilised space, to provide a study environment that supported the academic focus of senior students. The project transformed the area into a light-filled, functional hub that supports both independent and collaborative learning. Thoughtful design has created an atmosphere conducive to focused study, enhancing student engagement and wellbeing. The space has become an invaluable resource for students, enriching the College’s academic offering. Matthews Architects’ considered approach perfectly melded the heritage elements of the space with our contemporary learning requirements, exceeding our expectations.
Gerald Matthews, Design Architect
Sofiya Yunovidova, Project Architect
Giancarlo Monteleone, Graduate of Architecture
BUILDSURV, DDA Consultant
BCA Concepts, Certifier
Trinamic Consultants, Services Consultant
CPR Engineers Pty Ltd, Structural Engineer