Solar protection measures combined with energy efficient building components have delivered a light and spacious learning hub for students at St Rita’s College in Brisbane. The recently completed Trinity Centre brings essential new space, revitalising the heart of this nearly 100-year-old independent girls’ school.

The five-level development constructed within the college grounds has been designed to connect with the adjacent existing heritage buildings. It includes an auditorium, classrooms, a drama studio, music practice rooms, student social spaces and staff areas.

With the warm Queensland climate and proximity to neighbouring properties in mind, attention was given to including building features which would help to minimise cooling costs and address acoustic concerns. A selection of double glazed window and door framing products from Alspec were deployed across the site, along with strategically placed fixed louvres. While both products assist with solar management, the double glazing will also help to minimise sound transfer.

On the façade, Solaire fixed louvres were installed to reduce the amount of direct sunlight and heat transfer across windows, helping to keep interiors cool while retaining the benefits of natural light in the learning environment. Solaire louvres are available as horizontal fins, vertical blades or window hoods, and benefit from the unique Solaire Locking Bar which provides structural integrity and prevents louvre sections from becoming unclipped.

For façade sections requiring double glazing, two of Alspec’s energy efficient framing products were installed: ecoFRAMEplus and Hunter Evo. The ecoFRAMEplus 101.6mm is a centre pocket style of framing which is both energy efficient and exceptionally strong, making it ideal for the tall walls of glazing which feature on the south side of the Centre. The Hunter Evo framing, an equally robust framing style with a flush glazed appearance, was used in both 101.6m and 150mm frame depths. For areas only requiring single glazing, MacArthur Evo was installed. This is another centre pocket style frame which delivers security benefits and a comparable flush glazed finish to the Hunter Evo and EcoFRAMEplus styles.

For building access points, Swan Evo 45mm Single Glazed Commercial Doors were chosen. A versatile door available in hinged, pivoted or sliding configurations, Swan doors are a proven performer in high use environments such as educational facilities. Openable windows across the site are Alspec’s 50mm awning style, also a durable performer with excellent acoustic and thermal properties.

Project Name: St Rita’s College
Project Address: Clayfield QLD 4011
Architect: m3architecture
Builder: Tomkins Commercial & Industrial Builders
Fabricator: Hitec Glazing
Applied Finish: 25um Evershield - Sea Breeze

Alspec Products Used:
ecoFRAMEplus 101.6mm Centre Pocket Double Glazed Framing
Hunter Evo 101.6mm Double Flush Glazed Framing
Hunter Evo 150mm Double Flush Glazed Framing
McArthur Evo 101.6mm Centre Pocket Framing
Awning and Casement Window
Solaire™ Fixed Louvre