Working over the summer school holidays, SHAPE delivered a new modular building for Mount Barker South Primary School in South Australia, without any disruption to the academic calendar.
Situated in the Adelaide Hills, Mount Barker South Primary School needed to expand its facilities in preparation for the 2024 school year due to its growing number of students. Working to a tight timeline, the SHAPE team delivered a complete service, which involved the design, production and installation of the modular building in just 11 weeks.
With the initial design requiring modifications to suit the proposed location, which was surrounded by existing buildings, sports courts, and a retained tree, SHAPE engaged architects Das Studio to adjust the design. Having worked with Das Studio on multiple modular projects, the teams had a strong understanding of how to facilitate the changes and commence building without impacting the timeline and building quality, and while still meeting the client’s specifications.
While site preparation works were taking place, the modular components of the building were produced in SHAPE’s manufacturing facility in Adelaide. Six modules were created, which were developed into two general learning areas, student and staff toilets, and a cleaner’s store. In addition, a covered deck was built which spans the classroom and toilet entries, with an access ramp up to the building.
During the building’s construction, the team was able navigate logistics challenges to ensure the building’s completion before Term 1 began. Inclement weather occurred on site, which led the team to delay the delivery of modules to ensure they could sufficiently accept the weight of cranes. Importantly, SHAPE worked diligently over the holiday period to complete the service works and remaining finishes through strategic planning, coordination, and extended shifts.
Working to a tight timeline, the SHAPE team delivered a complete service, which involved the design, production and installation of the modular building in just 11 weeks.
Ryan Brown, Strategic Director – Modular at SHAPE, said: “The SHAPE team worked hard to complete the Mount Barker South project under challenging conditions and a tight deadline. Despite facing severe weather conditions which led to the delay in the delivery of the modules, the team managed to wrap up the remaining finishes before the 2024 school year commenced.
“Modern methods of construction, such as modular, are transforming the education sector due to its speed, cost efficiency, and ability minimise disruption to teachers and students throughout the build. The new classroom is a stellar example of modular construction, with the team delivering a bespoke and high-quality learning facility, with careful consideration to how the design, manufacture and construction would impact students and teachers.”
Mount Barker South Primary School Finance Officer, Jane Jenkins also provided a positive testimonial for the team’s services on the project:
“Our project was only held up due to unseasonal weather having an impact on large machinery required. We were most impressed how the team at Shape went above and beyond to ensure our classrooms were ready for the first day of school. Overall, we very much appreciated their collaboration, communication, and relationships with ourselves.”
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