Iona Presentation College

Albeus Fahey Building – building on the Spirit of Place

The recently completed 5 storey, split level Albeus Fahey Building is located in the centre of the Mosman Park Senior Campus following demolition of the Boarding House and Library. The design process incorporated a focused design thinking program, led by NoTosh, to identify the opportunities for developing the teaching and learning experiences to be embraced by Iona Presentation College. EIW Architects participated in developing and articulating a rigorous design brief that informed the learning environment concepts.

The design addresses the fall across the site with splitting of levels and connecting into the various existing surrounding building levels. Consideration to the scale and bulk was carefully considered with the design, to ensure a sympathetic and complementary premier building for the College.

The building provides contemporary learning environments to cater for the existing student population with a core focus on arts, design and innovation. It also encompasses the 100 year old Presentation Sisters heritage by responding to the historical links with the isle of Iona – between the ocean and the river – and the story of the founder, Nano Nagle. The themes of the Agora, the Crossing and the Lantern have informed the context for which the Learning Centre contributes to the cultural continuum of the place.

The Solaris and Loft look out to the Indian Ocean, providing resources, presentation spaces, study and collaboration areas for the girls. The embracing of the treetops, the natural light and ventilation, learning technologies and diversity of furnishings establishes an environment that empowers learning for the whole College community.

The following facilities are accommodated:

• Student Services
• Design Studios
• College Archives
• Meeting spaces
• Innovation Spaces
• Art Workshops
• Café
• Forum
• Kitchen
• The Solaris and Loft
• Staff community lounge