tridente architects: caritas college covered area

‘caritas college junior school external covered area’ by tridente architects images © simon cecere

australian studio tridente architects has completed ‘caritas college junior school covered area’, a multipurpose sports center at caritas college in port augusta, south australia. the project – part of a larger master plan – sees the redevelopment of a previously unused portion of the site into an external student hub and center for activity. providing linkages to new circulation patterns and spaces, the outdoor area looks to become a place utilized by both the students and the community.

the large open volume tectonic in its form, rises from the landscape, contrasting but connecting to its surrounding environment. structural steel panels in black, white and yellow form the roof and north wall of the complex while the other three walls remain free of barriers. the vertical sheets are rhythmically spaced with subtle variation, providing shelter from prevailing northern winds while maintaining a visual relationship to the classrooms and sports fields beyond.

an open courtyard extends from the side of the sheltered area, further expanding the social hub and sports facility. lights stretch from the wall onto the ceiling, illuminating the space at night making the environment suitable for use at any time of the day.