South Australia
Cabra College introduces the Angelico Centre, a pragmatic fusion of design and educational innovation by Russell & Yelland Architects. As the school’s fifth facility in seven years, it emphasizes a balanced approach to timely and budget-friendly delivery while addressing pressing space constraints and integrating digital media capabilities.
Designed with inclusivity and adaptability in mind, the Angelico Centre enriches the school’s offerings, providing both cultural benefits and versatile spaces. Collaborative efforts with allied disciplines ensure practical problem-solving, contributing to the facility’s efficiency. Sustainability measures, including eco-conscious design elements, align with contemporary environmental standards.
An unexpected highlight is the first floor doubling as a gathering space, showcasing the project’s adaptability to evolving needs. The Angelico Centre unveiling marks a successful confluence of architectural achievement and functional design, further enhancing Cabra’s commitment to progressive education
Commendation for Educational Architecture
Located on the site of a previous structure in a constrained location, the Angelico Centre addresses a need for new art, design and technology facilities at Cabra Dominican College. The design expression is distinctive and unique but also sits compatibly with neighbouring heritage and modern buildings. The large structural element at the entry draws reference from heritage forms on the site while also acting as a memorable visual and physical statement.
The jury were unanimous in deciding to recognise Cabra Dominican College: Angelico Centre as the 2024 EmAGN Project Award winner.
The procurement of this project reinforced the early successes of Russell & Yelland’s dedication to fostering the professional development of all staff. Rhiana Bell, (ree-aan-a) the project lead and a beneficiary of this ethos, was empowered with a unique skillset to steer the project with confidence. She also provided continual support, along with a platform for significant contribution, to the broader team.
The collaborative dynamic between Rhiana and Georgie Warren, with its clear flow of guidance and reciprocal learning, further exemplified this focus on nurturing talent.
As a result, the built outcome not only displays design excellence, but coupled with the exceptional guidance and demonstrated impact on younger team members, it sets up the Practice and team members for future success.
The Angelico Centre is a beautiful and functional learning space that provides opportunities for our students to undertake practical classes on-site in art, design, and technology subjects. Using the existing footprint of an obsolete building, the design allowed the addition of workshops, classrooms, and studios, that will support learning well into Cabra’s future. The design’s prioritisation of natural light without heat and glare, provides optimal resultant learning conditions and an inspiring space to nurture the creative minds of our students. seamlessly links the Gym with classrooms, Drama and Music Centres, improving the flow of students and staff around the College.
Rhiana Bell, Project Architect
Georgie Jackman, Graduate of Architecture
Steward Caldwell, Project Director
Will Harbison, Architect
Chris Sale Consulting, Cost Consultant
CPR Engineers, Structural Engineer
KD Certifiers, Certifier
Oxigen, Landscape Consultant
Resonate, Acoustic Consultant
Secon Consulting Engineers, Services Consultant
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.
