Glen Waverley South Primary School underwent a major renewal led by Sibling Architecture, introducing two new buildings that expand specialist learning areas and flexible neighbourhoods.
As a public school under Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA), the team balanced acoustic performance, durability and value—particularly in open commons as well as focused classrooms.
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Brief to solution pathway
Acoustic performance was a key consideration, as the VSBA client required each room to meet specific acoustic ratings. Balancing these acoustic needs with budget and aesthetic goals was a central challenge, particularly in open and collaborative spaces where noise control is critical.
- Set acoustic targets across space types (common areas, classrooms) while preserving design intent.
- Select ceiling systems that absorb sound while also contributing positively to the look and feel of the spaces.
- Balance aesthetic and acoustic goals with budget consideration.
Solution
In collaboration between Sibling Architecture and Renew Construction, CSR ceiling solutions were selected throughout the project for their ability to meet strict acoustic requirements while also supporting the architectural intent and remaining cost effective.
Shared and breakout zones adopted wood‑wool panels to maximise absorption where group activity is highest and to add natural texture and warmth. General learning spaces used perforated plasterboard to achieve a smooth, continuous finish that supports focus and consistency across teaching areas.
Together, the systems provide a coherent acoustic response: high absorption in active commons to limit spill and reverberation, and controlled reverberation with a monolithic aesthetic in classrooms. This delivered the client’s performance objectives without sacrificing the architectural language or the project budget.
Outcome
Through the considered use of Himmel Troldtekt Ultrafine and Gyprock Rigitone ceiling panels, Glen Waverley South Primary School achieves the acoustic performance required of modern learning environments while maintaining a warm, contemporary aesthetic. The ceiling solutions support a range of learning activities, from focused classroom teaching to active, collaborative spaces, and play a key role in delivering a high-quality outcome within the constraints of a public school budget.
- Acoustic targets achieved across both high‑activity and focused learning zones.
- Ceiling services integrated cleanly with consistent visual quality across the campus.
- A solution appropriate for a public school, with durable materials
Project credits
Client: Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA)
Architect: Sibling Architecture
Builder: Renew Construction
Reseller: Plaster Plus
Photographer: Peter Bennetts