Contemporary Learning Environment for
Northern Health School

Potter Interior Systems supplied a variety of products for the recently completed Northern Health School, to help create a functional, flexible learning environment.

Potter Interior Systems were involved with Accent Construction Interiors for the recent fit-out of a high-rise floor in Queen Street, Auckland specifically designed for the Ministry of Education’s Northern Health School. The school provides community, in-home and hospital based teaching to school aged students who are too unwell to attend their regular school.

The design by Rachel Xu of Pacific Environments features multiple learning spaces for an innovative learning environment, and integrates functioning office and administration spaces seamlessly.

Potter Interior Systems provided a solution to separate the two learning spaces with a DS Series quad slider over a 8.9m opening, with the four doors stacking seamlessly into a wall pocket. DS series sliding doors were also used to give further flexibility in opening up the boardroom and meeting spaces. DS series doors were used in hinged and pivot situations; this created a uniform look across all of the aluminium partition doors. The sliders and doors allow increased collaborative opportunities when open, and easy separation of spaces with increased acoustic privacy when closed — all whilst still retaining visual connectivity and natural daylight.

Incorporating acoustic performance solutions is essential for any learning environment. USG Mars ClimaPlus acoustic ceiling tiles in USG Grid provide high NRC and CAC throughout. The use of NovaHush insulation ensures sound transmission between learning and office spaces is minimal.

Acoustic wall covering finishes add colour, texture and tactile surfaces.

Potter Interior Systems’ premium Vision whiteboards allow communication of thoughts and learnings — be it a picture or display of information that teachers, students, staff and parents can see, process and add to.

USG Steel Stud and Track and TRACKLOK were also supplied by Potter Interior Systems.

Completion date: September 2016
Client: Ministry of Education
Architect: Rachel Xu, Pacific Environments
Contractor: Accent Construction Interiors