Learning, Light & Lifestyle

Learning Light & Lifestyle, located at Charles Sturt University’s Thurgoona campus in Albury-Wodonga, NSW, was developed to serve as a 24-hour hub for students, combining modern education design with energy efficiency and acoustic comfort. The building required a glazing solution that enhanced natural light, met bushfire compliance, and delivered long-term durability while complementing bold architectural features.

This project showcases DLG Aluminium and Glazing’s ability to deliver complex commercial glazing that balances aesthetics, performance, and safety. With double-glazed, bushfire-rated, and thermally efficient framing systems, the final result supports the university’s sustainability goals and modern student lifestyle.

Challenge

The Learning Commons Building needed to maximise daylight and create a comfortable environment for students around the clock. Design challenges included achieving energy efficiency targets, providing acoustic control for study areas, integrating bushfire-rated glazing, and aligning with the structure’s bold, geometric façade design.

Solution

DLG Aluminium and Glazing provided advanced aluminium glazing systems tailored to the project’s functional and architectural demands. Highlights include:

Double-Glazed FrontGLAZE™ Framing Systems: Series 426 and 626 suites accommodate IGUs up to 24mm thick, boosting energy efficiency and sound attenuation.

Low-E Glass Application: Reduces heat transfer while maintaining clarity, improving the building’s overall thermal performance.

Bushfire-Resistant Glazing: Viridian Frontline™ IGUs offer fire compliance without sacrificing visual appeal.

Structural Integration: FrontGLAZE™ frames were embedded into key structural columns, blending form and function seamlessly.

Natural Ventilation Features: Awning sashes were included within framing systems to allow for cross-ventilation and passive cooling.

Results

The finished build delivered a vibrant, well-lit, and acoustically balanced space tailored for student needs. DLG’s customised glazing met all bushfire, thermal, and acoustic requirements while elevating the architectural intent. The project was awarded the Australian Window Association’s 2009 Design Award for Best Use of Commercial Glazing in a New Building.