Breakout area design in educational facilities plays a crucial role in fostering a dynamic and conducive learning environment. These spaces go beyond traditional classrooms, providing students with opportunities for collaboration, creativity, and social interaction.
Breakout areas offer a reprieve from formal learning settings, allowing students to engage in informal discussions, group projects, and hands-on activities. The thoughtful design of these spaces can enhance students’ overall learning experience by promoting teamwork, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Additionally, breakout areas contribute to the overall wellbeing of students, offering a balance between focused academic work and moments of relaxation. They encourage a sense of community, fostering connections among students and faculty. In essence, the importance of breakout area design lies in its ability to create versatile, student-centred environments that support holistic learning and personal development in educational institutions.
The Design Brief
The Richard Johnson Anglican high school in Western Sydney aimed to design a fresh student breakout area. The goal? To seamlessly integrate both practical and visually appealing elements to elevate student learning and involvement.
The Civic Australia team developed the initial concept. They drew inspiration from the school’s identity, core values and global perspectives, such as resolution, respect, connect and challenge.
Study nooks now grace the breakout space, enabling students to engage in private discussions within an open setting. Simultaneously, the central wall fosters collaboration and social interaction. This provides a platform for students to exchange ideas and express thoughts through writable glass boards and pinboard cabinet doors.
Materialised Product – Breakout Area
Curved Seat/ottoman: Jimmy Pike Sandhills Meadow printed on our textured waterproof base cloth, Zircon Zem.
Built in joinery: Jimmy Pike Sandhills Clay, Topography Dust Storm and Topography Water all printed on Zircon Zem
The Team & Credits
- Interior Designer: Katarina Klomp, Senior Interior Designer, Civic Australia
- Australian Made Furniture and Project Management: Ben Rowland, Civic Australia
- Architect: Alleanza Architecture
- Builder: Steve-Watt Constructions
- Photography: © Freddy Morales Photography
- Materialised Team: NSW
