Gaven State School

Lightwave Architectural took on the ambitious task of transforming a challenging steep site in Gaven, Gold Coast, into an education design project with a vibrant activity and performance hub. With our expertise in education architecture and design, we successfully converted the previously unusable space into a dynamic environment that promotes learning, creativity, and campus life.

Through intelligent space planning and innovative design, we divided the hall and multi-media rooms over two storeys, creating a double-height covered entry that serves as the project's focal point. This strategic design element not only establishes a visual connection between the school and the oval but also maximises the usable area.

We overcame the site's topographical challenges by seamlessly connecting the school level, the hall, and the oval. The inclusion of a stage and rear access to classrooms provides the school with a spacious enclosed performance area, complete with a control room and ticket office. High-level strip windows and strategically placed aluminium louvers capture natural breezes and offer breathtaking views of the hall and stage.

Capitalising on the steep terrain, we created an outdoor grassed amphitheater that serves as a connecting space leading down to the hall. Additionally, the incorporation of maintenance storage beneath the stage adds practicality to the design. This project exemplifies the collaborative effort between Lightwave Architectural, the client, and other disciplines, to create a valuable part of Gold Coast’s and South East Queensland’s Education Architecture.