Preserving Nature Within Architecture
Farrell Wray Architects faced a unique challenge at Marcellin College in Bulleen, Victoria: integrating a towering gum tree into their design for a new flyover, famously known as the marcellin college gum tree. This non-negotiable element dictated the project’s entire layout, highlighting an innovative approach to architectural preservation.
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The 91-square-metre flyover serves as a bridge between the college’s senior learning building, dating back to 1963, and its junior school wing. The towering eucalyptus stands central within the site, forming the heart of the architectural concept. The architects, Ellie Farrell and Brad Wray, emphasized this from the start. “The first image we presented to the college was this tree circled with an ellipse,” they explained, with this ellipse becoming the organizing principle of the project.
Architectural Harmony and the Gum Tree
The design features a rectilinear concrete structure wrapped around an ellipsoid void. References to minimalist artists like Robert Mangold as a key influence informed the approach, aiming for tension and geometric contrast against open space. A cranked wall splits the space into a busy thoroughfare and a serene area under a circular skylight that directs the eye toward the school chapel. The majestic tree harmoniously contrasts with the modern design elements of the flyover.
Engineering Around Roots
Ensuring the tree’s survival was paramount. The architects worked with an arborist to conduct a root scan, and construction methods were adapted accordingly. “Footings had to be dug by hand, and the concrete slab was engineered as a mass beam,” said Wray. This design provided flexibility in column placement to prevent root damage from the native eucalyptus.
Subtle Symbolism and Historical References
The facade subtly nods to St Marcellin Champagnat, reflecting historical motifs from his Hermitage in France with unequal archways and chamfered edges. These details provide a layered narrative, offering quiet storytelling that reveals itself over time.
Educational Impact and Legacy
This isn’t Farrell Wray’s first flyover. Their previous project at Caroline Chisholm College, led by principal Marco Di Cesare, significantly boosted enrolment and pride within the community. A decade later, returning to create another flyover for Di Cesare speaks volumes about their impact, underscored by the presence of the iconic tree.
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An Interactive Experience for Students
Since its opening, the gallery and its art boxes have actively engaged students, offering spaces to display their work. The gallery’s seating invites students to touch the ancient eucalyptus and gaze into its canopy—fulfilling the architects’ vision for a harmonious interaction between structure and nature.
Images courtesy of Farrell Wray Architects. Photography by Peter Clarke.
Source: yellowtrace.com.au
Frequently asked questions
How did Farrell Wray Architects integrate the gum tree at Marcellin College?
The architects designed the layout with the gum tree as a central element, using an ellipse around the tree as the organizing principle. This approach integrated the tree into the architectural concept while preserving its natural presence.
What construction methods were used to protect the gum tree’s roots?
The architects worked with an arborist to conduct a root scan and adapted construction methods accordingly. Footings were dug by hand, and the concrete slab was engineered as a mass beam to provide flexibility in column placement and prevent root damage.
What is the educational impact of the flyover at Marcellin College?
The flyover’s gallery and art boxes have actively engaged students by offering spaces to display their work. The design invites students to interact with the space and nature, fulfilling the architects’ vision for a harmonious interaction between structure and the ancient eucalyptus.