Project
MLC — Nicholas Learning Centre Rooftop Garden
Nomination
Best Implemented Landscaping and Green Beautification Project
About the project
TCL were engaged by Methodist Ladies College (MLC) to deliver the Landscape Architectural scope of the new Nicholas Learning Centre, with Architecture by McIldowie Partners. In the heart of MLC Senior School campus, the rooftop was an opportunity to provide additional green space, outdoor learning, and event area with expansive views of Melbourne’s city skyline.
The design is a sequence of paved and decked circular cutouts embedded within a flourishing landscape of low shrubs, groundcovers and small trees, edged by timber seating. Colourful movable furniture allows the students to flexibly arrange the space for outdoor learning, lunchtime conversation or quiet study. The rooftop garden provides an opportunity to teach the benefits of small ecosystems in locations such as roof-gardens, reducing heat-island effect, contributing to biodiversity and cooling of the building. Native and exotic species provide seasonal diversity, texture, floral delight, and attract birds and insects.
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Project implemented in
2019
Additional information
https://www.archdaily.com/941057/mlc-nicholas-learning-centre-mcildowie-partners
https://www.stirworld.com/see-features-mlc-s-nicholas-learning-centre-melbourne-reflects-contemporary-educational-design
https://www.governor.vic.gov.au/all-speeches/official-opening-nicholas-learning-centre
https://www.domain.com.au/sponsor/leaving-legacy-methodist-ladies-college/
Applicant and authors of the project
Taylor Cullity Lethlean (TCL) are Landscape Architects and Urban Designers and we undertake a detailed exploration of context, site and community, with a focus on the poetic expression of landscape and contemporary culture.
TCL’s work is informed by four streams of investigation:
• contemporary urban life and global culture,
• the elemental power of site and landscape,
• artistic practice in a range of disciplines, and
• the creation of a sustainable future.
Other participants
Client — Methodist Ladies College; Architect — McIldowie Partners; Engineers — ARUP; Contractor — McCorkell and ElaeoCarpus;