Coonara

Coonara Community House is a place for local residents to meet and learn, on the edge of Kings Park in Upper Ferntree Gully. The particular focus is on childcare and adult education in childcare.
The additions to the stone heritage listed building negotiate the requirements of running a childcare facility alongside an open access community centre. A new foyer provides an entry point into a central community hub which acts as the town square for the new childcare facilities, E-learning centre, kitchen, café and amenities.
Beyond the central hub, a collection of coloured volumes line the wide passageway leading to the new children’s room. Within the room a wall of north facing glazing opens onto a large verandah and outdoor play area and offers uninterrupted views to the park beyond for the children and carers. The new early learning facilities cater for up to 21 pre-school children and support the E-learning centre through the provision of observation zones.
The building is visible as a small scale collection in a park; the language of the additions speak of an accretion of urban and suburban pavilions.