Matrix Education

Introduction
Matrix Education’s first Victorian location reflects their commitment to quality education that inspires students to reach their full potential. Aligned with Matrix’s corporate image, our design seamlessly integrates their branding with the vibrant essence of Melbourne. This dynamic environment fosters creativity, collaboration, and excellence, empowering tertiary students to thrive.

The Challenge

Matrix, based in NSW, expanded to Box Hill to create a space that merges Matrix’s identity with Melbourne’s distinct aesthetics. The project aimed to integrate Melbourne’s unique characteristics with Matrix’s corporate colours and branding in a cohesive, dynamic environment. The new site posed challenges, including structural issues, disability access limitations, and extensive demolition work. With students set to begin in the new year, we worked within a tight timeline, ensuring quality was maintained while balancing urgency with precision and craftsmanship.

The Solution

We brought Matrix’s vision to life through design elements that reflect both their brand and Melbourne’s vibrant cityscape, offering students a multi-faceted educational experience. The space seamlessly blends the raw industrial feel of concrete with Matrix’s sleek black tones and warm colours, creating a dynamic and engaging environment. Strategic lighting, custom ceiling features, and branding elements, such as the three Matrix lines, enhance the brand’s identity throughout the space.

The design includes large classrooms, smaller collaboration booths, individual learning spaces, and a state-of-the-art acoustic podcasting and video recording room, all equipped with high-performance technology. The balance of spaces foster individual focus and encourages collaborative interactions, ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Modular tables and an operable wall provide flexibility, accommodating larger gatherings when needed, while prioritising student well-being and teacher support. Maximised natural light, comfortable seating, and private break rooms further enhance the environment. We ensured the design balanced acoustics, functionality, and aesthetics, resulting in a space that supports diverse learning styles and creates a harmonious setting where both individual focus and collaborative work can thrive.

The Conclusion

The interior fit-out for Matrix Education’s Box Hill location successfully embodies the organisation’s commitment to excellence, creating a dynamic and inspiring environment that blends Matrix’s distinct branding with the vibrancy of Melbourne’s identity.

Despite facing challenges such as structural issues, limited accessibility, and an accelerated timeline, the project is a testament to the Merit team’s ability to deliver on time and within budget, despite the latent conditions of the site.

The design caters to a diverse range of learning styles, with technology and flexible spaces fostering collaboration and personal growth. The space not only enhances the learning environment but also supports Matrix Education’s mission to inspire and empower the next generation of students. By prioritising student well-being and creating a welcoming, functional space, the design elevates both teaching and learning experiences. This project serves as a flagship example of Matrix Education’s dedication to inspiring students, offering an environment where creativity, focus, and collaboration can thrive.