St Joseph’s Institution International School Malaysia (Tropicana PJ Campus)

St Joseph’s Institution International School Malaysia (Tropicana PJ Campus) is recognised for its value-centric education and learning driven by passion. After conducting extensive research on the school’s vision, the interior design team created the concept of The Pathway to Unity and design direction of Harmony in Differences, which were applied through two main elements: United Language of Colours and United Notion of Rhythm.

The project complied with the client’s requirement of building a school to reach the highest level of static and equipped space, which includes the dancing and movement studios, auditorium, function and sport facilities. Every open area is designated to become a learning space, and also spaces for discussion, interaction, communication and socialisation for students and staff.

All classrooms were designed according to the latest global education method for the relevant age group. The spacious areas are filled with age-appropriate colours, furniture, as well as plenty of storage spaces and equipment cabinets for teachers. All classrooms and other teaching spaces are equipped with smart projection system and speakers, pin wall and full height writing wall for easier and fun learning methods for students. The dining hall was designed to provide a sense of formality, which requires students to dress and behave properly upon entering, as well as follow socially acceptable eating manners.

The design team created a rhythmic system based on the theme to carry out certain simple elements throughout the campus’ interiors. These elements appear in the feature wall, area separators, railings, ceiling design, floor pattern and colour patterns for corridors and hallway areas. The offices, staff lounges, meeting rooms, boardrooms and corporate lounge on level six also followed the overall concept of the master plan.

Most of the materials were chosen from local manufacturers for reasonable cost, easy accessibility, after-sales service, availability and warranty of the products, as well as easy maintenance and care.

The school is distinctive and was designed to showcase its characteristics by complementing its mission, vision and values. The bookshelves, seating, individual and group study areas in the library were specifically designed to create an acoustic environment that encourages students to study, interact and work in groups.

The auditorium design used horizontal black and timber lines with light bulbs hidden behind each panel to create a contemporary space. The whole colour scheme ranges between medium warm grey and black, which highlights the timber and teal blue chairs.