Award-winning Coonawarra Willam Aquatic Centre to open its doors for Open House Melbourne

The award-winning Coonawarra Willam Aquatic Centre at Ivanhoe Grammar School’s Plenty Campus will welcome visitors as part of Open House Melbourne on Sunday 26 July, offering the public a unique opportunity to experience one of Victoria’s most celebrated educational facilities.

Recognised with a 2025 Australian Good Design Award, the project showcases the power of thoughtful collaboration between client, architect and builder to create spaces that enrich education, wellbeing and community connection.

Open House Melbourne is one of the world’s largest celebrations of architecture, design and urban places, providing the community with a rare opportunity to explore significant buildings and discover the thinking, craftsmanship and purpose behind them. Through guided tours and presentations, visitors gain insight into the design and construction processes that shape some of Melbourne’s most innovative projects.

Designed by the award-winning architects Peddle Thorp and constructed by Building Engineering, Coonawarra Willam is far more than an aquatic facility. It is a dynamic learning environment that supports Physical Education, Health and Humanities programs, serves as the home of Ivanhoe Grammar School’s swimming and school sport programs, provides a base for Ivanhoe Edge, and is a valued resource for the wider community.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the facility through guided tours led by the project team, hear firsthand about the vision, design and construction of the centre, and view a special exhibition celebrating the history and evolution of Ivanhoe Grammar School’s Plenty Campus.

The 11.00am tour will also feature a special poolside performance by Ivanhoe Grammar School’s primary students, presenting a song from Finding Nemo JR, adding a unique community element to the experience.

Building Engineering is proud to have partnered with Ivanhoe Grammar School and Peddle Thorp to deliver a facility that not only meets the school’s current needs but also supports future generations of students while creating lasting value for the wider community.

Event Details

Open House Melbourne – Coonawarra Willam Aquatic Centre
Date: Sunday 26 July 2026
Guided Tours: 11.00am, 1.00pm and 3.00pm
Location: Ivanhoe Grammar School – Plenty Campus

Bookings are essential and can be made through the Open House Melbourne website here.