Mairehau Primary School

The redevelopment of Mairehau Primary School was approached with a focus on creating a connected campus with calming learning environments. After the earthquakes, a lot of research went into the “stress” of the school environment. The research Reducing Stress in Schools, by Kathleen Liberty was provided to the architects as a guide which has a strong focus on colour. The calming colour palette for this school incorporates blues, greens, neutral greys and natural timber looks. The staged build was completed over 2 ½ years and included the refurbishment of the existing Hall, the 4-learning space Dominion Block and 2 Cebus classrooms. Demolition of the existing administration and Dominion Blocks central to the site allowed for the construction of 2 new buildings that encompass a total of 16 learning spaces, the admin and library with a central landscaped plaza connecting the more public functions of Hall, Library and Administration.