The newly completed Coonawarra Willam Aquatic Centre at Ivanhoe Grammar School represents a groundbreaking approach to combining wellness, education, and culture within a single integrated facility. Designed by Peddle Thorp Architects and completed in 2025, this 2,333 square meter project showcases innovative architectural solutions for educational aquatic facilities.
The project team was led by Socrati Seretis as Lead Designer and Client Relationship Manager, with Rob Alessi serving as Sports Lead and Alex Davies as Project Architect. Robert Abajas provided technical leadership, supported by Wenting Gan for technical aspects. The comprehensive development involved multiple specialized consultants, including Building Engineering as the main contractor and Northrop Consulting Engineers for structural engineering.
Located in Victoria, Australia, the aquatic centre demonstrates sophisticated engineering and design coordination. NJM Design handled the service engineering aspects, while Hydrautech Designs specialized in pool engineering. The project also incorporated expertise from Ratio Planning for town planning considerations, with Debtech serving as project manager throughout the development process.
The architectural design emphasizes the integration of multiple functions within the educational environment. The facility utilizes advanced materials including products from leading manufacturers such as Fairview, Keystone Linings & Acoustic, Laminex, Lysaght, and Megasorber. The building incorporates both glass and steel as primary structural and aesthetic elements, creating a modern and functional space that serves the school's aquatic programs.
This project represents a significant addition to Ivanhoe Grammar School's campus infrastructure, providing students and the community with a state-of-the-art aquatic facility. The centre's design philosophy centers on creating an environment where wellness activities, educational programs, and cultural activities can coexist seamlessly, setting a new standard for educational facility design in Australia.
