Snow Center for Education in the Asian Century | DJAS Architects

Architecture, Educational Buildings, Schools

In the midst of an 85-year-old campus, The Snow Center for Education in the Asian Century is the new flagship building for the Canberra Grammar School. Neatly situated between the original heritage listed red brick school buildings and more modern metal and brick performing arts center, The Snow Center seamlessly links the two architectural styles in materiality and form.

Building on the success and resources of Canberra Grammar School’s existing Chinese Studies program and on the opportunities afforded by the School’s proximity to embassies, universities and other leading institutions in Australia’s National Capital, the school aims to become a model centre for the secondary school level study of Australia’s most important regional partners in the twenty-first century.
Embedded in the design is a commitment to environmental sustainability and green architecture. Utilizing a fully automated night purge natural ventilation and smoke exhaust system; hydronic heated floors; and efficient LED lights; energy consumption and emissions are significantly reduced. Large roof overhangs, high-performance double glazing, thermal mass, and high ceilings help to maintain stable indoor temperatures during the warm summer months.