FIBEROCK® Aqua-Tough™ delivers high-impact, fire, water and mould resistance with a smooth paint-ready finish.
With 95% recycled content, GECA certification and contribution to Green Star points, it supports sustainable, future focused design. Ready for specification in education, healthcare, multi-residential, commercial and wet-area projects now.
Working as a journalist for the past 25 years, Editor of Architecture & Design Branko Miletic has been privileged to write on many subjects and industries such as Government, Manufacturing, Small Business, IT, Consumer Electronics, Lifestyle, Mining, Hospitality, Packaging, Sport and Food. Originally a research and development chemist in the mining industry, he has also written general op-ed and feature pieces for a range of mainstream publications here in Australia and around the world.
CLÉMENCE CARAYOL
Clémence Carayol is the Digital Editor at Architecture & Design, managing the publication’s online presence and social media platforms. Originally from France, she relocated from Paris to Melbourne in early 2021. She has written for major outlets like Le Monde and Courrier International, and Canada’s Urbania, covering topics from culture to environmental issues. In Australia, she has held numerous editorial roles, such at Australian Design Review and inside. Her work has also appeared in Harper’s Bazaar
Contributors
MATTHEW MCDONALD
Matt McDonald has more than 20 years’ experience as a journalist, editor, and copywriter, focussing on the architectural sector, the food, manufacturing and materials handling industries.
With a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Environmental Management and a Graduate Diploma in Economics, former Architecture & Design Deputy Editor, Stephanie Stefanovic is a content manager and business journalist with a background spanning technology, environmental planning and publishing.
PRUE MILLER
Prue Miller has spent her life in the media, from commercials, TV, feature films and of course newspapers and magazines. A background in the arts, combined with a passion for architecture has led her to write extensively about both residential and commercial property and architecture.
EMMA ADAMS
Emma Adams is an editor, writer and researcher with extensive experience in managing and commissioning original content and curating material for print, digital release and syndication. She holds a master’s degree in publishing and editing from the University of Melbourne.
Helena Golovanoff is a partner in Holding Redlich’s Construction and Infrastructure group. She has expertise in contract structuring, including drafting and negotiating development agreements, design and construction contracts, project delivery agreements, early contractor involvement agreements and consultancy agreements.
HELENA GOLOVANOFF
STEPHANIE STEFANOVIC
BRANKO MILETIC
Editor’s Letter
BRANKO MILETIC
In this issue of Architecture and Design, we look at educational and research facility design and what are some of the new trends influencing the design and construction of schools, colleges, universities, training centres and research facilities.
Australia’s educational facility design is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by evolving pedagogical approaches, technological advancements, and a heightened focus on sustainability and inclusivity.
In terms of our schools, the old and well-known socalled ‘traditional’ classroom layouts are giving way to adaptable spaces that support various teaching methods and learning styles. Features like movable furniture, open-plan areas, and breakout zones encourage collaboration and cater to diverse student needs.
Many modern educational spaces across Australia are increasingly incorporating advanced technologies. Interactive whiteboards, high-speed internet, and digital collaboration tools are becoming, or have by now, become standard, facilitating blended learning models that combine in-person and online education.
There’s also a growing emphasis on designing schools that are environmentally sustainable and promote student well-being, a notion that we’ll see grow in portance over the coming years. Incorporating natural light, ventilation, and green spaces not only reduces energy consumption but also creates healthier learning environments, a fact that takes on added meaning with our ever-changing climate.
Contemporary designs also prioritise student safety through features like clear sightlines, controlled access points, and surveillance systems. These elements are integrated seamlessly to create secure yet welcoming spaces.
For some time now, our schools have been deliberately designed as community hubs, with facilities that are multi-purpose and that can be used beyond school hours for various activities. This approach fosters stronger community ties and maximises the utility of educational spaces.
All these trends reflect a broader understanding that the physical environment plays a crucial role in educational outcomes. By embracing flexibility, technology, sustainability, and community integration, Australia’s educational and research facilities facilities are being reimagined to meet the needs of 21st-century users, a fact that you’ll see highlighted in the many projects we have chosen for publication in this issue, all of which that focused on our vibrant and burgeoning education sector.
This issue is also packed with a range of opinions, projects, features and other stories that I’m sure you’ll all find both fascinating and educational to read.
As always, if you have any ideas, stories, opinions, and projects of your own that you think would be of interest to our readership, feel free to get into contact with me directly or with the Clémence Carayol via the emails listed on the bottom right-hand panel on this page.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Brett Boardman
ON THE COVER Darlington is a small school located on the fringe of the city of Sydney, near Redfern and vibrant and cosmopolitan Newtown. It features a sequence of linear brick forms, reflecting the masonry character of the surrounding residential and industrial context and houses flexible learning spaces, a hall, and support areas.
The school has been radically transformed by fjcstudio, making way for new and contemporary learning environments, creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere, fostering a sense of belonging amongst the close-knit community of students, their families and school staff.
VIA ARCHITECTS PROMOTES THOMAS MITTON TO ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
VIA Architects has promoted of Thomas Mitton to Associate Director, coinciding with his 11year milestone with the studio.
Joining VIA as an Architectural Graduate in 2013, Mitton quickly stood out for his sharp eye for detail and ability to navigate complex design challenges.
Building on his established position within the studio’s leadership team, Mitton now joins Frank and Mark at a more senior level, alongside Associates Graeme Heatley and Luke Bonham. Together, the team leverages complementary expertise and a shared commitment to delivering exceptional design outcomes across all projects.
REAR ADMIRAL KATHERINE RICHARDS
APPOINTED ENGINEERS AUSTRALIA CHIEF ENGINEER
Engineers Australia National President and Board Chair Dr Raj Aseervatham says the role will be central to shaping the national conversation on engineering’s role in addressing global challenges and engaging with key stakeholders at the highest levels of government.
Engineers Australia has announced the appointment of Rear Admiral Katherine Richards AM CSC as its new Chief Engineer. Rear Admiral Richards joins Engineers Australia after a 36-year career in the Royal Australian Navy, culminating in her promotion to Rear Admiral in 2020. She held several senior appointments, including Head Navy Engineering and Defence Seaworthiness Regulator. Most recently, she led the design of a new, independent statutory regulator to oversee Australia’s AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine program. She retired from the Navy in 2024.
Claire Perperidis joined Matthews in 2022, playing a key role in the delivery of largescale commercial developments while also contributing to the firm’s ongoing operations and growth.
After three years as Project Lead at Matthews Architects, Claire Perperidis has been promoted to the position of Associate at the South Australian architecture and interior design practice, based in North Adelaide.
Her responsibilities have included managing a diverse range of projects from initial feasibility studies through to detailed design, contract administration and construction.
She has worked closely with clients, consultants and contractors across significant projects including Plympton International College, Walford Anglican School for Girls, and the redevelopment of the Ahrens office.
In her new role as Associate, Perperidis will oversee the management of multiple projects while mentoring a team of emerging professionals. She will also be actively involved in the firm’s business development initiatives, helping to secure and shape future projects.
Perperidis began her career in Adelaide in 2003 as a Graduate of Architecture before moving to the UK, where she gained 17 years of international experience in roles including Architectural Assistant and Associate.
Her portfolio includes projects such as Heathrow Airport Terminal 5, Houndshill Retail & Cinema Complex in Blackpool, the Metrocentre Cinema Extension in Newcastle, and the conversion of a listed townhouse at Manor Place, Edinburgh.
ABOVE Claire Perperidis / Supplied.
CLAIRE PERPERIDIS APPOINTED ASSOCIATE AT MATTHEWS ARCHITECTS
ABOVE Katherine Richards / Supplied.
ABOVE Thomas Mitton / Supplied.
ADAM HADDOW APPOINTED AS AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS’ NATIONAL PRESIDENT
Adam Haddow’s tenure as Australian Institute of Architects’ National President will begin at the conclusion of the 2025 Annual General Meeting. The Institute also thanked Jane Cassidy for her tenure as National President and welcomes her to the position of Immediate Past President.
Haddow is a champion of good design and a strong advocate for the value Architecture brings to communities throughout Australia and the world. He is a firm believer that Australia’s future will be better where architecture and design thinking are prioritised, and that good design can deliver both economic benefits and improved health and wellbeing outcomes.
With over 30 years’ experience across diverse scales and typologies, his contributions to architecture are recognised both nationally and internationally. His work has earned prestigious accolades, including the Robin Boyd Award for Residential Architecture, the Walter Burley Griffin Award for Urban Design, and the Harry Seidler Award for Commercial Architecture.
Through his involvement in numerous strategic design initiatives, Adam significantly shapes urban policy and planning, consistently bringing a thoughtful, design-led perspective. Recognised as a thought leader in mixed use design, Haddow’s work reflects the belief that architecture should provide an armature for community life; that the activities buildings facilitate are just as important as the physicality of the buildings themselves.
He remains curious and driven by a passion for creating cities and spaces that serve the community and shaping a profession that supports its contributors.
KATE MACDONALD APPOINTED HDR ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL
Leading architecture practice HDR announces the appointment of Kate Macdonald as associate principal, defence, and aviation, to bolster their strategic expertise in these sectors.
In her new role, Macdonald will work closely with architecture managing principal Huai Lim, federal principal Tim Napper, and HDR’s 120-strong architectural team to deliver complex, highly technical projects and programs. She will also collaborate with the firm’s global multidisciplinary practice encompassing building engineering, aviation, and transportation to provide integrated, high-performance solutions for these evolving sectors.
Previously with Cox Architecture, Macdonald’s past experience also includes 20 years as director at Alasdair Macdonald Architects, a renowned Australian practice founded by her father. Her transdisciplinary experience spans defence, aviation, transport, and tertiary education, with a portfolio that includes projects for the Department of Defence, Qantas Airways Limited, Airservices Australia, Northrop Grumman, Transport for New South Wales, Newcastle Airport Pty Ltd, Wagga Wagga Airport, Albury Airport, the University of Sydney, and the University of New South Wales.
Her expertise in aviation has seen her design a wide range of facilities, from airport terminals and aerobridges to aircraft hangars, simulator training facilities, freight and logistics buildings, offices, amenities, and ancillary structures.
With a shared commitment to thoughtful design, team collaboration, and continual learning, both architects exemplify the values that drive SMFA’s success.
Following their well-earned promotions to Senior Architect at SMFA, Stav Rozaklis and J Sin reflect on the pivotal projects that have shaped their careers, their evolving roles within the practice, and what leadership in architecture means to them.
CHAMPIONING SUSTAINABLE DESIGN: ANDREW TU’INUKUAFE JOINS NZGBC
Warren and Mahoney Chair, Andrew Tu’inukuafe, has recently been appointed to the Board of the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC).
A longstanding advocate for sustainable architecture, Andrew Tu’inukuafe brings with him a wealth of experience and a commitment to creating built environments that are both culturally resonant and environmentally responsible.
ABOVE Adam Haddow / Supplied.
ABOVE Kate Macdonald / Supplied.
ABOVE Stav Rozaklis and J Sin / Supplied.
STAV ROZAKLIS AND J SIN APPOINTED SENIOR ARCHITECTS AT SMFA
ABOVE Andrew Tu’inukuafe / Supplied.
Don’t copy-paste: Why education projects need tailored contracts
WORDS HELENA GOLOVANOFF
In the same way a pattern-book design can’t have the title block changed and be projectready, a standard form contract or bootleg copy of the contract from a previous project should not be used without careful consideration.
Whether it is having parted with a sizable sum already for design development or the excitement of being tangibly close to boots on the ground, it is not uncommon for a building contract to be hastily put together, often without legal advice. Anecdotally, this practice is in part due to the availability of standard form contracts including the Australian Standards and ABIC contracts, which perhaps create the impression that inserting a few details into a contract is all that is required to prepare a decent contract document.
Widespread in the Australian construction industry, standard form contracts are a great starting point for a building contract. However, despite what the label might lead you to believe, almost none of them can be used “off the shelf” without some sort of amendment or special conditions.
COMMON CONSIDERATIONS WHEN USING STANDARD FORMS
Age – One need only look at the significant changes to the recently released AS4000:2025 General Conditions of Contract, compared to its predecessor AS4000:1997, to get a sense of what is missed when an old standard form is used without amendment. GST, PPSA and WHS are just some of the legislative developments now addressed. Older forms also don’t reflect current market practice on matters like insurances, insolvency laws and dispute resolution.
Jurisdiction – While ABIC publishes state-based contracts, the Australian Standard contracts are a national standard. Without amendments for each jurisdiction, a contract
can produce unintended outcomes as legislative defaults may apply.
Project particulars – Completing the schedule might seem like an administrative task, but it is easily done badly. Failing to name a party correctly or omitting an ACN can render a contract unenforceable. Leaving schedule items blank means default provisions apply, such as an 18% late payment interest rate in older AS contracts. Insert text into every item – if something is not to apply, write out what is intended rather than using “NA” or “–”.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
Large tertiary institutions or school systems often have detailed procurement policies, unique land ownership structures, and specific funding conditions. These may need to be reflected in the contract. For example, a financier may require a side deed aligned with the contract terms, or a government funding deed may specify conditions that must be incorporated.
Projects in the education sector present sector-specific site requirements for a project taking place on an operational campus such as specific access limitations, noise and vibration requirements and safety considerations for campus users. For school projects, child protection practices may need contractual reinforcement. In New South Wales, for instance, construction on an operational school site is not classified as “child-related employment,” so the working with children check regime does not automatically apply. In such cases, child safety provisions must be deliberately included.
Contracts should clearly reflect how the project price is determined. Budget pressures often lead to informal cost-saving measures or vague commitments, but these can undermine
the legal enforceability of the agreement. If the contract does not define a fixed price or method for determining it, a court may find there was no concluded bargain at all.
Intellectual property in standard form contracts must also be respected. Australian Standard contracts are licensed and cannot be copied or reused without permission. Using bootleg copies can breach copyright and carry over inappropriate terms from past projects. Building contractors often qualify their tenders with long lists of clarifications. Simply including these in the contract without review can create ambiguity or conflict. These clarifications should be distilled into a clear, final position that reflects what both parties have agreed.
Finally, it’s important to consider the risk of conflict when administering a contract for your own design. If a design error leads to a variation claim, assessing that claim impartially may prove difficult.
A contract should never be an afterthought.
For architects, designers and project leaders working in the education sector, taking the time to ensure the contract reflects the specific context, risks and expectations of the project is not just good practice – it’s essential protection. A well-prepared contract doesn’t just set the terms of delivery; it protects the integrity of your design, the success of the build, and the strength of your professional relationships.
Helena Golovanoff is a partner in Holding Redlich’s Construction and Infrastructure group. She has expertise in complex negotiations and contract structuring, including drafting and negotiating development agreements, design and construction contracts, project delivery agreements, early contractor involvement agreements and consultancy agreements.
How EPDs Build Transparency, Trust and Sustainable Outcomes
Achieving sustainability in the built environment starts with access to reliable, data-driven insights on material impacts. Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) offer a clear, standardised way to evaluate products based on their environmental footprint.
EPDs in Construction: Building Transparency, Trust and Sustainability examines how EPDs enhance transparency, build trust among stakeholders and drive more responsible, future-focused construction practices. As the industry moves toward more data-driven partnerships, architects, designers and speci ers will need to understand how to leverage EPDs to deliver sustainable design outcomes.
What are EPDs?
EPDs are third-party-veri ed documents that transparently report a product’s environmental impact across its life cycle.
Based on ISO 14025 (Type III Environmental Declarations), EPDs help architects and speci ers compare materials using consistent, credible data. Each EPD is underpinned by a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), conducted to ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 standards, and guided by a Product Category Rule (PCR).
For construction materials, EN 15804 provides a common methodology for assessing building products. The process includes selecting the PCR, conducting the LCA and verifying the results before registering the EPD
with an of cial program operator like EPD Australasia, making it publicly accessible.
Role of EPDs in building and construction
The construction sector is responsible for approximately 37% of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to the UN Environment Programme. In response, the industry must make environmentally responsible choices and this begins with material speci cation. EPDs offer a way for architects, speci ers, contractors and developers to make evidence-based decisions that reduce environmental impact.
By offering consistent, third-party-veri ed data, EPDs make sustainability a measurable and actionable criterion in material selection. EPDs provide key environmental performance metrics, including:
• Global warming potential (GWP)
• Energy and water consumption
• Resource depletion
• Emissions and waste generation
• Life cycle stages (production, transport, use, end-of-life)
These declarations allow professionals to compare products within the same category and align their selections with sustainability goals, compliance requirements and building rating schemes. With growing adoption, platforms like EPD Australasia are making this information more accessible to industry stakeholders.
How EPDs build sustainable partnerships
EPDs foster transparency and trust by enabling manufacturers to share veri ed data on their products’ environmental impacts. This openness strengthens collaboration with architects, speci ers and builders who value eco-conscious design. By providing a shared language and measurable metrics, EPDs help align sustainability goals across project teams.
Key bene ts include:
• Supporting certi cation pathways like Green Star, LEED and BREEAM
• Enabling informed, life cycle-based material selection
• Driving innovation in low-impact, highperformance products
As environmental accountability becomes central to design and construction, CSR Gyprock and Rondo lead the way with their EPD-backed solutions. CSR Gyprock’s EPDs cover a range of high-performing plasterboard that meets re, acoustic and thermal requirements while lowering embodied carbon. Rondo’s EPDs span steel ceiling and wall framing systems, combining structural integrity with environmental accountability. By providing transparent, third-party-veri ed data, both companies empower architects, designers and speci ers to make informed, responsible material choices that support longterm sustainability goals and green building certi cation pathways.
Skill shortages in construction: How talent, training and technology can make a difference
Australia’s construction industry is growing at its fastest pace in history, yet skill shortages are threatening to derail the progress of significant infrastructure projects such as the Brisbane 2032 Olympics as well as ambitious housing supply targets.
Strategic workforce development combined with a focus on project management practices is now more urgent than ever to ensure efficient resource allocation, mitigate risks, and guarantee timely project delivery across all sectors.
“We have to make sure that we’ve got the right people in the right roles,” says Ben Breen, Global Director of Construction and Vice President for the APAC region at Project Management Institute (PMI), as he weighs in on the skill shortages in Australia’s built environment and discusses the importance of drawing the right kind of talent, balancing formal education with on-the-job training, and using technology to ensure greater efficiencies in construction processes.
Quoting from PMI research, Breen says there are about 40 million project professionals around the world and up to 30 million will be needed over the next 10-15 years just to keep up with the demand of different projects. In the context of the Brisbane Olympics, Construction Skills Queensland has estimated a shortage of about 60,000 professionals by 2027. The Australian Government is also targeting 1.2 million houses by 2029.
“Given these huge numbers, the prevailing skill shortage is something that has to be addressed quickly,” says Breen.
WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION AND ONTHE-JOB TRAINING
“I think that the construction industry has a little bit of a PR problem. We need to be able to attract more people. We need to be able to talk about the wonderful things that we do and the impact that you can have on the world, because it really does affect so many people’s lives,” observes Breen.
Bringing more women into construction is another solution. According to KPMG, there are about 1.37 million people in construction, of which only about 15% are female with just 4% in trades. Leveraging this untapped market is something that would benefit everybody.
Technology is another way to attract some great talent to the industry, particularly in getting young people into construction, he added.
Elaborating on the 70/20/10 rule of learning where 70% comes from job experience, 20% from social interactions, and 10% from formal
education, Breen says that joining PMI about six years ago opened his eyes to the benefits of continuing education. He collaborated with industry to create a series of courses with a focus on introducing more efficiencies into the sector.
“On-the-job training is incredibly important, but you’ve got to get the right balance with formal education as well,” he notes.
HOW CAN PROJECT MANAGERS DELIVER CRITICAL CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN THIS EVOLVING
LANDSCAPE?
“At the heart of a good project manager is really their ability to deal with change, and I’d say that especially in construction.”
Recalling the COVID period and its aftermath when there were so many disruptions and changes, he said a recent tour of the new Sydney Metro West line left him impressed, given that the pandemic struck right in the middle of that program. There were hot zones in Sydney where the materials were being manufactured, impacting deliveries. They also had deliveries coming in from overseas, which were niche critical products that couldn’t be obtained from elsewhere. Combined with material and labour prices just shooting through the roof, the project managers had to be resourceful in a tough situation.
“But they did a great job. It’s really encouraging to see that when you are prepared and trained for these things, then you’re very flexible and able to get things done,” says Breen.
“WE CAN BECOME A LOT MORE EFFICIENT”
Pushing for greater use of technology, especially AI, he says it can, for instance, be used for predictive analysis of resource loading, so one’s not overloading in the wrong places and people are being brought in only when needed.
Even as the construction industry is growing at a fast pace, the skill shortage situation is heading towards another crisis with around 42% of the construction workforce retiring by 2032. Then there is the problem of efficiency.
“We are notoriously inefficient and quite wasteful and a little bit stuck in our ways. There is a lack of capability there as well. There’re people in roles that they’re not necessarily
trained for or capable of doing, and that’s not their fault. We need to work with them, we need to map capabilities with employers and make sure we’re giving these people the skills that they need,” says Breen.
Technology can also be adopted for mundane tasks such as creating minutes of meetings or reports, which usually have people not doing the job they were hired for; live dashboards, for example, can update project heads about the progress of work, or generative AI can put together minutes of meetings complete with key points, actions and the people responsible for those actions.
“We can become a lot more efficient. There is a drain on the resources, but let’s bring in the right talent, let’s train them up and let’s make sure they’re capable of delivering.”
IMMIGRATION OR TRAINING – OR BOTH?
“For the Sydney Metro, the stakeholders had to bring in people from all around the world who had delivered similar multi-billion projects, because it’s not easy to find these resources,” says Breen.
“I do believe that you have to bring in the right talent where it’s not available locally. Try your best to get the right people who are already here, even if they’re in different states. If not, you have to look elsewhere.”
As for upskilling, he says many people need to have training at different phases of their career.
Having worked in Singapore, he says that they are very open to bringing in the best talent from all around the world to deliver on their really ambitious plans. Similarly, in the Middle East, they not only bring in the right people, but they also train them to work in their culture. The training could include power skills such as empathy, communication or other elements that are equally important to deliver on the outcomes.
“We have to make sure that we’ve got the right people in the right roles,” says Breen. “And if we don’t have them in the right roles, or they don’t have the capability, make sure they have it.”
For more on this subject, go to the original podcast with Ben Breen on architectureanddesign.com.au, Talking Architecture & Design Episode 250.
The fate of bush schools mirrors the country they’re on
WORDS PRUE MILLER
Unlike capital cities, a school is a town anchor, the ‘make it or break it’ of a rural town surviving.
ABOVE Menindee Central School / Courtesy of Keith Pike.
A school, not all that long ago, was a room. A rectangle with a roof. Sweetened with the alluring scent of wet wool and orange peel, HVAC was open or closed windows, a bar heater on the wall, and Summer term offering the (remote) chance of lessons under a tree. And that was pretty much the scene across Australia, from Mosman to Murwillumbah. But that’s not the case now, as schools in regional Australia are being superseded by their classmates.
There are approximately 9,629 schools across Australia, with the majority in New South Wales (3,000) and the least in the ACT (137) – these stats are probably not all that surprising to most of us – but what might make you sit up and pay attention is that just under half of all those NSW schools, and just over half of all the Queensland state schools are in rural or remote areas. And the disparity continues around the continent. Most kids in K-12 schools are not lucky enough to be in well financed capital city districts, but are in underfunded, under resourced and out of sight locations. For too many children, (and towns) dotted around Australia, the box has remained the design du jour, though hundreds have in fact just shut, and the land sold off.
Unlike capital cities, a school is a town anchor, the ‘make it or break it’ of a rural town surviving. A good school attracts families to a town; they open businesses, create employment and spend money at the IGA. A school offers a bonding experience for families who may live on an outlying property, with zero neighbours and very little social interaction, bar school events. Lose the school and that whole heartbeat of
rural and regional centres, just stops dead.
Louise Martin is Federal President of the Isolated Parents Association, a group that has members right across the continent, all of whom work tirelessly toward equity of access to education for all students who live in rural and remote Australia. She, along with her members have seen too many schools close, and seen also the heartbreaking ripple effects that extend to whole towns.
“Schools are the heart and soul of our communities,” says Martin. “For a town to live and thrive you need a good school, and a good health service.”
Without a school communities, do collapse, and too often we see famers leave the land in search of a better future for their kids – very few can afford exorbitant fees for boarding schools. Without the people who grow the grain and the beef and the lamb, city folk will one day feel the effects of a rural education system that’s failing, but right now people seem non-plussed.
A good school doesn’t mean something jaw dropping from desks at the top end of town, it does mean a building that has a sense of place, rather than a sense of 3 - 12 in a penitentiary. It should be a place that beckons students and of course teachers.
Regional schools are desperate to attract teachers. Staff well-being is not the first thought when considering resetting the rural education landscape, but perhaps it should be. Governments, committees and think tanks have been throwing money at the problem for years, offering financial incentives (in the millions) to
teachers, to hook them and keep them. It hasn’t worked. It’s the life after school that is falling short, responsible in great part to the revolving door of teachers, and the stop gap measures such as the use of non-teaching but wellmeaning staff who fill in the gaps.
Teaching is not a walk in the park experience at the best of times, but working hard, sometimes in multi age classrooms, is particularly challenging. A happy home life is very much the way to balance the experience. It’s all very well to offer accommodation rebates, if there actually is accommodation. But a town with just a couple of hundred kids or less, is unlikely to have a range of places to rent or buy. If life is hard for teachers and their families after hours, then then the joy of teaching is somewhat diminished, and the glow of city lights beckons once more.
Rural locations do have special issues for building; from long distance transport of materials, to difficult terrain. And from a planning point of view, the numbers are hard to tie down. Rural schools have floating enrolments. A rural life is not consistent, families move a lot and growth in the population sector, though growing in merely half of that compared to capital cities. Needless to say, a school with an enrolment of 100 students cannot expect an Abbotsleigh style library or a Harvard quadrangle – but nor do they want it. But surely designing for a small school offers great opportunities to do something special. The future of regional education may need some creative thought.
What better reason do we need to keep the heart of Australia beating.
Architects and designers and city planners need to really think outside the box, or indeed look back to what has worked in the past, much if it once sourced from the brains of the state government architect’s office.
“I was one of over 100 architects working in various parts of the government,” says Keith Pike of Keith Pike Associates, “At that time there was special section that just designed schools. There was real expertise there that we have lost.”
The Menindee Central School is in the far west of NSW, on the banks of the Darling surrounded by red earth, created 30 years ago, is a poster child for a good design that resonates in the space, and was designed by Pike. Although somethings have changed over time, it is an excellent example of what was once a raft of award winning Government Architect projects.
Menindee has a population (as at 2021) of just 537, through the town sign post boasts 980. Menindee is famous for its nearby lakes, and the surrounding deep red earth. The school has a strong sense of this place; reflecting the local colors, the rural aesthetic in low slung corrugated roofs with exposed trusses and swathes of shade, all creating a sympathetic
space for students, parents and the wider community to enjoy. The original plan has been added to, without the help of Pike, but none of his buildings, and his original intent, have been lost. The school, by all accounts is thriving.
Without such schools, communities do collapse, and too often we see farmers leave the land in search of a better future for their kids –very few can afford exorbitant fees for boarding schools. Without the people who grow the grain and the beef and the lamb, city folk will one day feel the effects of a rural education system that’s failing, but right now people seem non-plussed.
“My mother (who is 85) says, we haven’t been hungry enough”, says Martin.
Some solutions seem doable says Martin –such as addressing the lack of accommodation.
“I think they should revise the first home buyer grants to include first home buyer renovations. There are a lot of good buildings [that teachers would enjoy], that just need a bathroom or a kitchen, but they need financial assistance to fix them.”
Not helping also is a banking system that sees a rural post code on a mortgage application, and despite the confirmed employment, runs scared.
I floated the idea with Louise about having schools with a ‘reverse boarding school’
approach. Having great living quarters on site for teachers, not students. Rent free. Martin agrees that would help, as principals have been offered homes on site previously with great success.
“The young teachers, well, I think there is actually a great fear factor of ‘going rural’,” observes Martin. “Especially the young teachers.”
Generally speaking there is greater divide than ever between city and country life – visiting relatives on the farm for Summer holidays is now a rare treat. People have less experience of the rural lifestyle while growing up, and are frequently exposed to negative concepts.
“And I don’t think our universities are not adequately training new teachers to cope in a range of scenarios, which includes experiencing rural education,” adds Martin.
What we keep missing in this conversation about rural education, is the fact that the rural land we have is just beautiful, breathtaking, exciting, challenging and ever changing. The clouds are bigger, the magpies louder and the smiles more genuine, and the kids seem, well, happier.
What better reason do we need to keep the heart of Australia beating.
ABOVE The Shed by Wardle. Photo by John Gollings. Robust and enduring materials reference the site’s industrial past, while pointing it toward a low carbon future.
Are vertical schools an idea that never came to fruition, and if so, why?
WORDS EMMA ADAMS
Five years ago, vertical schools were among the greatest patrons of architectural investment in Australia. But is this still the case in 2025?
More than tall structures, these buildings represent a typology that makes full use of highvalue spaces to improve learning at all levels, often designed with broader efficiencies and community experiences in mind.
Where single-storey schools traditionally sprawled across suburban blocks, vertical schools are not simply compressed versions of their horizontal predecessors. They are deliberately designed for long-term flexibility, increased social interaction and greater opportunities for community integration, and represent a strategic investment in urban areas where land values and competition for other needs including quality open space are high.
Often located in repurposed multi-storey buildings, vertical schools consolidate teaching, administration, library services, and amenities in one city-centre site. At Adelaide Botanic High School, designed by COX Architecture with DesignInc, six levels within a repurposed 1960s building have been adapted.
“The feedback we received from students and teachers during the first stage was invaluable. It highlighted the need for quieter, smaller, and softer spaces—environments that support focus, wellbeing, and flexibility”, COX Associate Director Gianni Francisco says. Connected to a newly constructed seven-storey building, the expansion by COX opened in June 2025 and includes a rooftop terrace, collaborative and smaller classroom environments where disciplines are integrated and organised around a central atrium.
In Perth, a similar adaptive reuse is underway. Hassell is transforming a 1980s office tower into a school for St George’s Anglican
Grammar with a staged design that not only reclaims urban space but adds vertical density. The redesign will be delivered in two stages: the almost complete initial phase focuses on repurposing the existing seven-storey building, while the second phase will see an additional eight storeys constructed above it by 2032.
Projects like Fortitude Valley State Secondary College in Brisbane also designed by COX— which opened in 2020—prioritise the flexible arrangement of rooms that connect with natural landforms and surrounding parkland. With covered landscaped areas on every level, the design “enables students to connect with and view their city, providing inspiring learning environments that support an ambitious project-based curriculum”, COX Director Christina Cho comments. “At ground level, the design maximises green space on a constrained urban site, delivering much needed amenity and contributing to community life.”
In some instances, vertical schools contribute back to the community by offering access to their own amenities outside of school hours.
For example, South Melbourne Primary School by Hayball architects, has no fencing at ground level, despite its proximity to roads and tram lines, reflecting its core philosophy of shared public space. The building it occupies also houses a kindergarten, maternal child health service and indoor sports courts which are accessible to community via a separate entry and lift.
The tertiary sector has a similar approach to open, shared access. Monash and Melbourne universities “have opened up their campuses
to be more welcoming to community, to enable greater opportunities for partnership and enterprise, and to be more responsive to the surrounding urban fabric”, Strategic Design Consultant Jocelyn Chiew says. Chiew oversaw the implementation of the Monash masterplan across four campuses at Australia’s largest university in the role of campus design, quality and planning manager from 2012 to 2020. Following that period, she was the director of city design at the City of Melbourne, overseeing end-to-end design of council’s own projects and design review for significant planning applications, state and council projects over five years to the end of 2024.
Chiew comments, “The shift toward vertical campuses emerges from converging pressures: the imperative for responsible, long-term stewardship of institutional estates, strategic outward-facing urban integration, and the necessity for leading educational institutions to maintain competitive advantage in a global landscape”. Chiew observes that the University of Melbourne Student Precinct—designed by Lyons with Koning Eizenberg Architecture, NMBW Architecture Studio, Breathe, Greenaway Architects, Architects EAT, Aspect Studios and Glas Urban —and the Clayton Transport Interchange—by Wardle and Aspect Studios— “exemplify a civic-minded approach to campus design. These developments dissolve traditional boundaries between civic and campus environments, creating contemporary architectural responses that align with institutional aspirations while embedding and advancing local values of nurture, inclusion, and environmental stewardship into their designs”.
The student precinct in Parkville is a case in point and “encompasses a restored terrain developed through a multi-year co-design collaboration with First Nations stakeholders and architects to authentically reveal the site’s rich geomorphology—the connecting element between four renovated schools and one new vertical school”, says Chiew.
Similar site-based considerations were the focus for Monash College, which occupies ten levels of a former office building in Melbourne’s Docklands. It offers secondary school graduates an alternative pathway to university, including foundation and diploma programs. Chiew notes that the refurbishment by Lyons with NMBW Architecture Studio, Studiobird, Glas Urban and Gilby + Brewin is “designed around the concept of new terrains—both symbolic and spatial gestures that establish an inviting and identifiably Monash presence within the space, introducing elements of nature, nurture and discovery into environments typically characterised by blandness and disconnection from landscape”.
Often serving as satellite city campuses to larger suburban institutions, vertical schools are typically embedded in central business districts. This urban placement allows universities to integrate seamlessly into existing infrastructure—public transport, retail, food, accommodation—and creates reciprocal relationships with the surrounding community.
At the University of Tasmania one new vertical school—River’s Edge—and two new buildings—Inveresk Library and the Shed— have been delivered by Wardle. Located within historic railway precincts, the schools are highly accessible and connected to civic and cultural networks and reflect the principles of
the development as a shared precinct. Inside, the designs promote student collaboration and interaction. Rooms organised around a central atrium act as the heart of the building, improving visibility and movement between floors. Interconnected staircases and open voids are crucial for activating the vertical campus and encouraging informal engagement. Enhanced solar orientation and thermal performance along with a careful selection of materials targets “embodied carbon reductions in structure, envelope, services, internal linings and furniture”, the studio notes.
“While the operation of the estate represents a significant cost, the estate is typically a very valuable asset. Many universities are looking at opportunities to leverage the value of the estate, and at the same time refashion it to support these new ways of working and learning”, Partner at Wardle Meaghan Dwyer comments.
“This extends to understanding the utilisation of their current estates and their future needs— tasks that are not to be underestimated— and developing robust business cases for expenditure. I don’t think there is any doubt that the way forward is to develop the estate; however, the questions of why and how are particularly challenging, and subject to greater scrutiny.”
Over the last five years, changed patterns of working and learning, and limits to international student intake have impacted investment in the sector. While universities traditionally own and develop their campuses, architectural services are procured through competitive processes.
“In our experience”, Dwyer says, and perhaps in alignment with the increased scrutiny of expenditure, “the competition is greater,
LEFT The University of Melbourne Student Precinct by Lyons with Koning Eizenberg Architecture, NMBW Architecture Studio, Breathe, Greenaway Architects, Architects EAT, Aspect Studios and Glas Urban.
by Peter Bennetts. Open shared access dissolves traditional boundaries between civic and campus environments.
and the contracts are tougher”.
In Australia’s rapidly densifying cities, vertical educational buildings have become emblematic of a larger shift in how space, learning, and civic life intersect. Far from being a passing trend or compromised substitute for traditional campuses, vertical schools represent a sustained, evolving investment in educational delivery within the fabric of urban and campus life.
Over the last decade, these typologies have grown from mainstream responses to demographic pressure, land scarcity, and shifting educational expectations. They reflect a broader ambition in campus design: to be civic, connected, and future-facing. Vertical schools have proven their value—not just in physical form, but in the way they bring learning closer to community life, integrate with infrastructure, and support innovation.
Despite economic pressures, investment in the estate remains a strategic asset for the delivery of educational services. Chiew notes that vertical schools “have paved the way for a critical mass of students on campus—either in learning and teaching spaces, or new residences—and the at-ground amenity of retail, open space, support and event areas to attract and sustain them”.
“There is also deep consideration of the need to refurbish existing building stock”, says Dwyer, which ties into industry-wide carbon reduction targets—of working within the spatial and built fabric of cities with the least environmental impact. The move toward vertical urbanism reflects a significant shift in campus design that is ongoing, planned with broader efficiencies evident across the entire education sector.
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The Sutton Hill home: Materiality, memory and modernity merge in regional NSW
When Sam and Selena Hardwick decided to build their forever home in Sutton, New South Wales, they aspired to create an enduring off-grid dwelling that would truly settle into the rugged landscape. Sam’s family history anchored this future-forward vision – for the seventh-generation son of a farmer, building a house on the land he’d grown up on was a genuine homecoming.
The couple’s commitment to biophilic design and sustainable living, coupled with the desire to embrace the sentimental facet of the project, provided an intricate architectural foundation. At an impressive 40 metres in length and 300 square metres, the design required careful consideration to harmoniously balance warmth, intimacy and energy efficiency. Designed to rely solely on renewable energy, this sustainable haven would use recycled and reclaimed materials where possible and integrate a food forest and a self-managed sewer system, while expansive glazing would become instrumental to fostering a profound and immersive connection with the surrounding landscape.
With the support of Free One Building Design, the committed owners proved that combining personal heritage, environmental
ethos and thoughtful design can yield exceptional results, making their ambitious multi-generational forever home a reality.
The exterior of the resulting structure harmoniously emerges from Yass Valley’s layered landscape, with a kaleidoscope of recycled bricks defining the facade. Over 14,000 reclaimed Canberra red bricks – some sourced from the chimney of Sam’s old childhood home – set a distinct architectural tone, only augmented by the timber design elements, aluminium cladding and expansive stretches of glass.
The Architectural Window System (AWS) ThermalHEART™ range was chosen for its exceptional thermal efficiency and timeless aesthetic. Expertly fabricated and installed by Young Glass and AMC Homes, the selection enabled the family to bring their biophilic dreams to life. The Series 731 Thermally Broken Sliding Doors and Series 726 Fixed Windows, strategically incorporated throughout the dwelling, gently frame the expanse of rolling hills, seamlessly connecting the rugged beauty of the outdoors with the welcoming ease of the interiors. Beyond their exceptional ability to foster a
powerful connection with the landscape, the oversized openings from the ThermalHEART™ range proved essential to creating a comfortable, energy-efficient environment. The thermally broken design of the Series 731 doors minimises heat transfer, keeping the interior cool in summer and warm in winter, while the Series 726 windows maximise natural light penetration without compromising thermal performance. These innovative systems amplify the spectacular vistas enveloping the property and ensure inviting and intimate living quarters for the whole family.
From the reclaimed bricks that echo familial stories to the glazing that connects the home to the present moment, every element of this future-forward project expresses a profound respect for the personal narratives and the harsh beauty defining this locale. As such, this Sutton Hill dwelling isn’t just a house – it’s a compelling symbol of the owners’ unwavering vision, emerging as a genuine homecoming that seamlessly merges past, present and future, and fosters an enduring connection to the land for generations to come.
Reimagining vocational education for a future-ready workforce, Chisholm Institute’s new Frankston campus by Gray Puksand sets a bold benchmark in design, transforming TAFE into a dynamic hub of innovation, adaptability, and community connection.
As Australia faces growing skills shortages across industries, vocational education (practical, career-focused training that prepares students for specific trades and professions) has become more crucial than ever. No longer confined to purely functional or utilitarian environments, vocational institutions are now being reimagined as dynamic, future-ready learning hubs.
A leading example of this shift is the recently completed Stage 2 of Chisholm Institute’s Frankston campus, a $67.6 million project by Gray Puksand. Purpose-built to foster flexibility, collaboration and community connection, the campus sets a new benchmark for TAFE.
In this interview, Mark Freeman, National Education Lead at Gray Puksand, shares how the project challenges outdated perceptions of vocational learning. From civic placemaking to long-term adaptability, it reflects a confident new vision for how TAFE spaces can support both industry and student success.
ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN: WHAT WAS THE OVERARCHING VISION BEHIND THE DESIGN OF STAGE 2 AT CHISHOLM INSTITUTE’S FRANKSTON CAMPUS?
Mark Freeman: The overarching vision was to create a catalyst for community connection through civic placemaking and an architectural experience that inspires delight and curiosity. A place of learning that encourages social interaction through spatial experience. Stage 2 was conceived as a contemporary centrepiece that could anchor future development and support a more integrated campus experience. The existing site had evolved over multiple decades without a cohesive strategy, and this project provided an opportunity to redefine it spatially and programmatically.
The building consolidates teaching, student services, and social functions into a legible structure that strengthens campus connections and reorients circulation. It reflects Chisholm Institute’s objective to offer a learning environment that is engaged, accessible, and future-focused.
HOW DID THE DESIGN RESPOND TO THE INCREASING EMPHASIS ON VOCATIONAL EDUCATION IN ADDRESSING AUSTRALIA’S SKILLS SHORTAGES?
The brief reflected Chisholm Institute’s commitment to addressing workforce needs in sectors including community services, IT, and creative industries. The building floorplates and spatial solutions can accommodate a diverse range of programs through consistent, contemporary teaching and learning settings that support applied, project-based learning and relevant technologies.
The architectural planning allows curriculum programs to continually evolve without the need to alter the building structure, ensuring the facility remains responsive to shifting skills needs across industries.
IN WHAT WAYS DOES THE FACILITY PROMOTE INTERDISCIPLINARY LEARNING AND CROSS-SECTOR COLLABORATION?
Interdisciplinary exchange is supported through strategic co-location of departments and shared zones such as student learning commons and a wide range of informal breakout spaces. These act as legible, intuitive, connective points throughout the building.
Visual links across and between rooms and floors promote engagement with different disciplines, while circulation routes were designed to create opportunities for informal interaction. The result is a layout that encourages collaboration and reduces program isolation.
WHAT KEY SPATIAL INNOVATIONS OR FEATURES SET THIS CAMPUS APART FROM TRADITIONAL TAFE ENVIRONMENTS?
The primary spatial innovation is the introduction of a central atrium with a vertical promenade composed of stairs and bleacher spaces. The informal learning spaces generated by the atrium provide opportunities for students and staff to study individually and collaboratively, as well as for social interaction. This amenity provides multiple view aspects and allows for natural light flow, encouraging use beyond merely educational objectives.
The design moves away from traditional stand-alone faculty buildings, delivering a genuine mixed-use hub that integrates learning, support, and shared communal functions. Key features include a central student hub, a blended learning commons, and adaptable specialist spaces.
Staff workspaces were brought together to foster collaboration, with a mix of work settings responsive to staff tasks and activities.
Spatial legibility was prioritised through open sightlines, intuitive wayfinding, and layered transparency. These elements support a more cohesive and activated campus environment.
HOW DOES THE DESIGN SUPPORT ADAPTABILITY AND FUTUREPROOFING IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING EDUCATIONAL AND EMPLOYMENT LANDSCAPE?
The building was designed with adaptability as a core principle. Structural grids and floorplates were kept open, and services were arranged to accommodate future specialist uses, from
tech labs to studios. Internal elements can be reconfigured with minimal intervention.
We collaborated with Chisholm Institute throughout the design process to ensure they could adjust learning spaces as industry needs changed, without costly upgrades. This ensures long-term spatial relevance and student and facility usability.
CAN YOU SPEAK TO THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY CONNECTION IN THE PROJECT, AND HOW THE DESIGN ENCOURAGES THIS?
Before the redevelopment, the campus layout was fragmented, limiting opportunities for connection and campus culture. We introduced new spatial links, defined arrival points, and applied a unified language across the site.
A central green spine was established to connect key precincts and support outdoor learning, gathering, and civic presence. These spaces are designed to support everyday use and foster a stronger sense of belonging for students, staff, and visitors.
The building encourages exploration and provides numerous locations for learning and social interaction opportunities for Chisholm’s students, as well as wider industry and community partners. Features such as the grand external bleacher are connected to the large courtyard. This forms a campus heart, where communities come together to trade and share information and experiences.
WHAT ROLE DID SUSTAINABILITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS PLAY IN THE OVERALL DESIGN PROCESS?
Sustainability was embedded from the outset, consistent with Chisholm Institute’s broader goals for a resilient campus and was addressed through integrated planning that prioritised long-term performance. The project replaced two outdated buildings with a consolidated structure that improves spatial efficiency and operational outcomes. The building’s materiality and its external areas were designed to be robust, including low-maintenance landscapes that support circulation and passive occupation.
HOW HAS THE PERCEPTION OF VOCATIONAL EDUCATION EVOLVED, AND HOW DOES THIS PROJECT HELP SHIFT THAT NARRATIVE?
The design challenges the long-standing view of vocational education as purely functional by introducing a spatial quality more often associated with university campuses. This bias toward functionality, and the resultant fragmentation of the experience, was apparent at the commencement of the design.
PROJECT CREDITS
Project size 9,600 m 2
Cost $67.6m
Completion date 2024
Architect Gray Puksand
Photographer Brett Boardman
When discussing the previous campus experience, anecdotes were relayed of students preferring to eat lunch in their utes as the environment was less appealing.
Historically, TAFE environments have lacked architectural identity or social infrastructure. This project introduces refined materials, clear planning, and a strong balance between learning and communal space. It communicates investment in the student experience and reinforces vocational education as relevant, valued, and aligned with contemporary expectations.
WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU ENCOUNTER DURING THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION PROCESS, PARTICULARLY GIVEN THE CAMPUS’S MULTIFACETED BRIEF?
Integrating the project into an operational and evolving campus required thoughtful
staging, access, and coordination with existing infrastructure. Demolition, construction, and future works had to be carefully sequenced to minimise disruption.
The engagement process involved a broad mix of stakeholders. We established a clear and structured consultation framework that maintained project momentum while allowing for flexibility as program requirements evolved.
LOOKING AHEAD, HOW DO YOU SEE THE FUTURE OF EDUCATIONAL DESIGN EVOLVING, PARTICULARLY FOR TAFE AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING INSTITUTIONS?
Vocational education is entering a new phase, shaped by shifting workforce demands, diverse learning needs, and blended delivery models. In response, institutions are moving toward integrated precincts that prioritise flexibility, spatial clarity, and social cohesion.
Design strategies need to support this evolution through emphasis on shared spaces, legibility, and infrastructure that can adapt without significant intervention. Architecture will play a crucial role in reinforcing institutional identity while allowing spaces to adapt to an everchanging economic and educational landscape.
The creation of spaces and places that showcase the programs being delivered and the work that students are developing creates safer, more cohesive and vibrant campuses and communities.
How Ventilated Facades and Rigid Air Barriers Enhance Performance
To maximise the potential of ventilated facades in modern construction, it is important for architects, designers and specifiers to understand how its different components work, particularly the role of vapour-permeable weather barriers. Ventilated Facade Systems & Rigid Air Barriers: An Effective Strategy For Weather Protection & Energy Efficiency examines the design of ventilated facades in detail with a special focus on why rigid air barriers are the best choice for this type of facade system.
How do ventilated facades work?
A ventilated facade is a building envelope system designed to improve thermal performance, moisture control and energy efficiency. Its defining feature is the air cavity between the outer and inner layers, which enables continuous airflow via the “chimney effect” to remove heat and moisture. The system is typically anchored to the external wall and comprises the following key components:
• Outer cladding: The visible exter nal layer, typically made of metal, glass, ceramics or timber. It protects the building from weather and contributes to the aesthetics of the building exterior.
• Air cavity: Located between the cladding and insulation, this gap enables upward airflow.
• Weather barrier: A vapour-permeable, water-resistant membrane placed over the insulation to prevent water ingress while allowing internal vapour to escape.
• Insulation layer: Positioned closest to the building structure, this layer regulates heat flow, ensuring energy efficiency and indoor comfort based on project-specific thermal requirements.
Choosing the right weather barrier
A weather-resistant, vapour-permeable barrier is almost always added to protect the insulation layer and inner building structure by allowing internal moisture to escape while resisting external water ingress. While flexible wall wraps are common, they often face issues like poor airtightness, installation errors and insulation compression. These problems can compromise thermal performance and increase moisture risks, especially in humid climates.
Vapour-permeable rigid air barriers are a high-performance alternative to flexible wall wraps. Made from fibre cement or gypsum, these sheathing boards are strong, durable and water-resistant, offering superior protection
against moisture and wind pressure. By containing insulation and equalising pressure within the cavity, they enhance building envelope performance. They are easier to install than flexible underlays with no air gaps, and more resilient, and can therefore be used to create a weathertight barrier to protect the building’s interior spaces. This allows internal trades to start before the building exterior is finished and avoids construction delays
Siniat Weather Defence® is an NCCcompliant rigid air barrier board designed for use behind facade cladding systems to create a pressure-equalised cavity for rainscreen and ventilated façade applications. Suitable for lightweight steel stud framing, modular buildings and timber frame construction, it provides one of the fastest paths to a weathertight building while delivering a range of design and performance benefits. Certified for use in systems requiring a Fire Resistance Level (FRL), Weather Defence® is an ideal solution for projects with stringent fire performance requirements, such as schools and other Class 9 buildings.
Darlington Public School | fjcstudio
PHOTOGRAPHER BRETT BOARDMAN
In this interview with Architecture & Design Digital Editor Clémence Carayol, fjcstudio Design Director Richard Francis-Jones delves into the project, from its genesis to its completion.
Darlington Public School has been awarded the prestigious 2024 World Architecture Festival Building of the Year.
Darlington is a small school located on the fringe of the city of Sydney, near Redfern and vibrant and cosmopolitan Newtown. It features a sequence of linear brick forms, reflecting the masonry character of the surrounding residential and industrial context and houses flexible learning spaces, a hall, and support areas.
Complementing this, a curvilinear perforated metal screen defines fluid, organic movement and gathering spaces, seamlessly connecting outdoor play areas and gardens.
The school has been radically transformed by fjcstudio, making way for new and contemporary learning environments, creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere, fostering a sense of belonging amongst the close-knit community of students, their families and school staff.
The school’s inclusive culture is a key part of the new design, acknowledging and respecting children from diverse family and cultural backgrounds.
According to Richard Francis-Jones, the
vision for Darlington Public School was grounded in a deep understanding of place, its layered histories, cultural significance, and physical constraints. The site sits at a convergence of narratives: Gadigal Country with enduring spiritual and ecological meaning; an industrial precinct defined by brick warehouses and working-class housing; and a vibrant, diverse school community with a strong First Nations presence.
From the outset, our intent was to create more than just a functional learning environment. We aimed to develop a civic place of belonging, an architecture that could embody inclusion, support future-focused education, and hold the complexity of different identities within a coherent, thoughtful framework.
As the design evolved, it became a dialectical response. It brought together the urban density of inner Sydney with an openness to Country; the structured rationality of formal education with the wonder and playfulness of children; and contemporary pedagogical models with Indigenous knowledge systems.
Key spatial and cultural decisions, including yarning circles, reinterpreted murals, and endemic landscaping, were shaped through
sustained dialogue with the school’s Aboriginal Art Group, staff, and Elders.
The result is not a singular gesture but a layered architecture, one that reflects a shared identity, supports learning in multiple modes, and responds to Country with care and integrity.
WHAT WERE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES
YOU FACED DURING THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION PHASES, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?
The most significant challenge was resolving the complexity of building on a highly constrained urban site while maintaining uninterrupted school operations. The campus is hemmed in by dense residential and commercial development, limiting buildable area and demanding sensitive consideration of privacy, solar access, and acoustics.
Rather than relocating students to temporary offsite facilities, we implemented a two-stage construction strategy that enabled the school to remain operational. This approach allowed early access to new facilities, preserved community continuity, and avoided the environmental and financial costs of decanting infrastructure.
PROJECT CREDITS
Year 2023
Architect fjcstudio
Photographer Brett Boardman
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Culturally, the challenge was to meaningfully integrate First Nations perspectives; not as an overlay, but as an embedded part of the architecture. This required careful consultation and collaboration, ensuring spatial planning, landscape design, and material language were shaped by cultural insight rather than symbolism alone.
HOW DID YOU ENSURE THAT THE PROJECT MET THE CLIENT’S NEEDS AND EXPECTATIONS?
Meeting the client’s expectations required more than fulfilling a brief. It meant delivering a school that reflects the community’s spirit: Cultural respect, inclusive learning, and civic presence.
We worked closely with School Infrastructure NSW, educational consultants New Learning Environments, and the school community to define a vision that was pedagogically ambitious and culturally specific.
This is a special school that belongs to the community, with 25% of students being First Nations. The narratives of these students and alumni are integral to the design, reflecting their stories not only in the architecture and interior spaces but also in the celebration of artworks.
The school’s diversity is mirrored in the varied learning environments, including formal and informal spaces, tiered presentation areas, practical activity zones, open-plan learning settings, quieter, more focused areas, and a strong connection to outdoor learning.
Engagement with First Nations staff and the Aboriginal Art Group informed decisions across scales, from the layout of learning hubs to the integration of totemic graphics and Indigenous signage. All learning spaces open to outdoor terraces, enabling a seamless flow between formal and informal learning environments.
Public-facing elements like the hall and library were positioned to welcome community use while respecting the neighbourhood scale. The curvilinear perforated screen, referencing the casuarina trees once lining Blackwattle Creek, offers solar protection while expressing the project’s connection to Country.
WERE THERE ANY UNIQUE OR INNOVATIVE TECHNIQUES OR MATERIALS USED IN THIS PROJECT?
Innovation at Darlington lies not in spectacle, but in responsiveness. The spatial model reimagines the traditional school typology, replacing enclosed classrooms with flexible, light-filled learning hubs that support collaboration, storytelling, and differentiated learning.
A robust masonry envelope provides thermal mass and acoustic protection, enclosing naturally ventilated interiors. Over 70% of teaching spaces rely on passive ventilation, with mixed-mode systems used only when necessary, ensuring energy efficiency while maintaining a sensory connection to the landscape.
The sawtooth roof references the industrial past while maximising daylight and accommodating solar collection. Materials were locally sourced and chosen for their durability, reduced embodied carbon, and cultural relevance.
Several removed trees were repurposed into the new landscape. The dry creek bed traces the path of the now-buried Blackwattle Creek, and a sinuous poem is inscribed at the entry, grounding the site in story.
Cultural representation is embedded through the digital reinterpretation of murals and codesigned totemic signage, integrating memory, learning, and place. The landscape is reflected in the interiors, creating a continuous visual connection to each learning space.
The materials selected reflect the colours and patterns of Country. The warm golden-coloured screens echo the patterns of the casuarina tree, with veins endemic to the site, allowing sunlight to create dappled patterns.
The materials selected reflect the colours and patterns of Country. The warm golden-coloured screens echo the patterns of the casuarina tree, with veins endemic to the site, allowing sunlight to create dappled patterns.
The curves provide a soft response, creating a safe and nurtured environment for children. Both the exterior and interiors are restrained and simple, yet well-proportioned, considered, and detailed, appropriate for a primary school.
An extensive collection of Aboriginal artworks has been preserved and displayed around the school. Murals painted on demolished walls were photographed and reproduced in the cladding, offering a tactile response, and adding a new layer of interpretation, preserving stories of Country for future generations.
The landscape further contributes to learning opportunities with QR codes describing the names and uses of Indigenous plants, reinforcing the school’s commitment to a holistic educational experience.
HOW DOES THIS PROJECT FIT INTO YOUR BROADER PORTFOLIO AND DESIGN PHILOSOPHY?
Darlington Public School reflects fjcstudio’s commitment to design as a social and cultural practice. It exemplifies our belief that architecture should be site-specific, inclusive, and shaped by deep listening to both community
and environment. This approach aligns with our broader philosophy, as seen in many of our key fjc projects, where cultural narratives, community engagement, and environmental intelligence guide the design process.
The project also aligns with our ongoing commitment to decolonisation. By engaging with First Nations staff and the Aboriginal Art Group, we aimed to create spaces that not only support learning but also recognise and celebrate Indigenous stories and connections to Country. This is not a superficial addition, but an essential part of the design, as we recognise the historical and ongoing impacts of colonisation and strive for reconciliation in both physical and cultural terms.
As with our other works, Darlington reflects a rejection of generic, colonial-inspired design, favouring architecture that is grounded in the specificities of the land, the community, and the culture it serves. The school is a place not just for education, but for care, memory, and belonging, embodying a holistic approach to design that respects both people and place.
HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THIS PROJECT BEING CROWNED WORLD BUILDING OF THE YEAR AT WAF?
The recognition was deeply meaningful, not only for our team, but for the broader conversation about what architecture can be. Darlington Public School is not a project of spectacle; it is a project of purpose, where cultural care, environmental thinking, and pedagogical ambition come together.
That it was awarded World Building of the Year speaks to a growing recognition that smaller, community-centred projects can have global relevance. It affirms the value of working with integrity, listening to Country, collaborating with community, and designing for the future through the lens of placemaking.
This was our second time receiving the award, following Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. In both cases, the recognition underscores the potential of architecture to shape shared identity, support civic life, and deepen our connection to place.
Acoustics without compromise: Himmel’s Troldtekt solution for Kangan Institute’s multifaceted campus
Kangan Institute’s new Broadmeadows Health and Community Centre of Excellence (HACCOE) represents a signi cant investment in the future of healthcare and community services education in Victoria. Envisioned by Architectus and brought to life by Ccon Construction, this state-government-funded project was driven by the pandemic-era need for innovative educational models, yielding a facility that complements online learning with a comprehensive blend of simulation labs and immersive spaces. With light- lled atria and interactive learning environments spread over three levels, the design prioritises interaction and hands-on experience, encouraging students to put theory into practice.
Nurturing this engaging environment required balancing several crucial considerations. To ensure comfort and appropriate conditions for collaboration and learning – particularly in large spaces prone to noise disruption – it was paramount to deliver superior acoustic performance while simultaneously adhering to a strict budget and the highest standards of re safety.
To address this multifaceted challenge, Himmel, an Australian distributor of Troldtekt
ceiling and wall panels, conceived a solution centred on the innovative Troldtekt Line Design 11 acoustic panel system. “It was important to have a design solution that fused a re ned aesthetic with exceptional acoustic performance,” says Grant Lindsay, CSR’s Speci cation Manager. “Troldtekt cementbonded wood wool acoustic panels are highperforming, exible, versatile and boast unique creative potential, which made them an ideal solution for this project.”
Troldtekt Line Design has milled grooves in the surface and overlapping edges on all sides, and when the panels are joined together, they create a seamless surface de ned by a signature linear aesthetic. Speci ed in black and white, the Troldtekt Line Design 11 acoustic panels form a dynamic pattern across walls and ceilings, adding visual interest to otherwise monolithic surfaces. The batten-like shape lends itself to seamless integration with other elements of the t-out, such as linear lighting xtures, while the wood wool nish imbues the interiors with natural softness.
Beyond their design exibility, the panels effectively absorb sound and minimise reverberation, creating a more comfortable
learning environment. And because of the system’s ability to offer varying levels of sound absorption, the acoustic performance can be tailored to speci c areas, optimising cost ef ciency without compromising on results. As Grant says, “With Troldtekt products, you pay for what you need.”
In addition, Troldtekt’s unique composition achieves a Group One re rating, the highest possible level for internal applications. This allows design teams to integrate a stunning timber aesthetic without the need for costly sprinkler systems, ensuring both safety and budgetary compliance, which is essential in government-funded projects.
By embodying Kangan Institute’s vision for immersive, hands-on and future-ready learning, the Broadmeadows campus sets a timely benchmark for educational design. Integral to this achievement, the Troldtekt system expertly balances the complex demands of aesthetic vision, acoustic clarity and critical safety compliance, contributing to a productive environment where students can communicate, concentrate and collaborate, nurturing skills set to de ne the future of healthcare.
Kangan Institute Health and Community Centre of Excellence | Architectus
PHOTOGRAPHER TREVOR MEIN
Kangan Institute has unveiled its new Health and Community Centre of Excellence, a state-of-the-art facility aimed at addressing Australia’s urgent shortage of skilled professionals in the care and support sectors.
Designed by Architectus, this centre in Broadmeadows reimagines vocational education by seamlessly integrating practical learning with technology enabled simulation spaces. It is designed to inspire and prepare the next generation of healthcare and community service professionals.
The centre represents a bold new approach to training, encouraging engagement in essential but often overlooked career paths.
Making the most of its strategic location, the Health and Community Centre of Excellence is situated next to open parkland in a lively mixed-
use area. Its design focuses on visibility and accessibility, creating a learning environment that is open to the wider community.
The facade showcases hand laid brickwork that began as an interpretation of the nearby waterway and evolved into an artwork symbolising the flow of life, with cellular patterns similar to an ultrasound image.
The transparency at ground level invites members of the public, many of whom come from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, to see the vibrant, technology driven learning taking place inside.
Location Broadmeadows, VIC
Year completed 2025
Architect Architectus
Photographer Trevor Mein
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Hamilton Parklands School | Gray Puksand
PHOTOGRAPHER KANE JARROD
The school provides programs for students with a wide range of developmental and educational requirements, and with skills and resources to become active, engaged, and responsible citizens.
As a small, close knit existing school community, there is a strong sense of belonging, security and support evident in the social, educational and wellbeing programs the school provides. The design teams’ task was to uphold the character and soul of the existing school and provide a completely new campus environment more appropriate to contemporary teaching and learning practices.
From the outset, the school desired a facility “under the one roof”, avoiding daily operational and behavioural challenges that arose through configuration and layout of the existing school facilities. This concept guided the design team to focus on establishing a sense of community, security, belonging and safety in a singular building.
Through the design process there was due consideration of the environmental settings required to support educational and developmental activities across a range of scenarios. These included the scale, location, connectivity, and amenity of spaces, including learning studios, retreat and respite spaces, and specialist program spaces.
The architectural concept has been developed through an extruded gabled form across the length of the building. This form endeavours to create a scale sympathetic to its context, and reference to home.
The extruded simple form also creates efficiency in construction and buildability with repeatable grids and modular elements included to ensure detailing is simple and clean.
The resulting design exhibits a lineal planning configuration, creating moments and spaces along a journey of compression and release, internal and external focus, and transition through both passive and active learning environments.
These are framed around a generous external courtyard, sheltered from the street frontages, and connected through a range of viewpoint’s, portals and pergolas to evidence transition from inside space to outside activity.
The efficiency of the built form provides release of generous areas of the site that were previously underdeveloped and underutilised.
PROJECT CREDITS
Project size 1394 m 2
Completion date 2024
Architect Gray Puksand
Photographer Kane Jarrod
St Joseph’s School Payneham Carlo Acutis Building | DesignInc
PHOTOGRAPHER SIMON BENNETT
The school’s aspirations for the building were to reflect optimism, excitement, excellence, and challenge, creating a dynamic environment where children can explore, create, and learn in ways that align with the school’s core values and mission.
PROJECT CREDITS
Project size 1430 m 2
Project budget AUD 7,000,000
Completion date 2024
Building levels 1
Architect DesignInc
Photographer Simon Bennett
From the architect:
DesignInc was initially engaged to review St Joseph’s previously prepared master plan.
As part of this process, several stakeholder workshops were held with the school’s leadership, staff, board, and parents to gather insights on the current state of the facilities, as well as the school’s future aspirations and strategic goals for the campus.
The outcome of this engagement was the development of an updated master plan. The first key element of the revised plan was a new building designed to accommodate junior primary students from Reception to Year 3. Due to funding and logistical considerations, the building was designed in two stages.
The first stage will house Reception on the ground floor and Year 1 on the first floor. When fully completed, Reception and Year 1 will remain on the ground floor, while Years 2 and 3 will occupy the upper level.
The design principles established during the briefing process were Excellence, Curiosity, Creativity, and Community. Following
the college’s vision and aspirations, are incorporated STEM-focused external play areas.
Given the building’s proximity to the existing STEM spaces and the limited green space on campus, it was collectively decided to include a nature play space for early learners.
This space features water play, STEM activities, and shaded areas, offering opportunities to teach sustainability through natural play. It fosters key learning outcomes such as exploratory behaviour, environmental stewardship, reflective thinking, and curiosity.
The building is designed to be environmentally responsive, intelligently constructed to be cost-effective, durable, and low maintenance, reducing the need for frequent material replacement.
These spaces encourage learning and exploration, rooted in curiosity and creativity. Play is positioned as the cornerstone of early childhood learning and development, and the building provides numerous indoor and outdoor spaces that support this philosophy.
The design narrative reflects the school’s foundational vision and values. The building includes general learning areas interconnected by glazed sliding doors, offering clear sightlines between classrooms, the learning commons, and the natural surroundings. In addition, special features like Reading Nooks, Caves, and Stages provide young learners with spaces to Retreat, Reflect, Create, and Play.
These areas balance quiet concentration spaces with sensory breaks, while the learning commons offers a shared, informal space for collaboration, model building, drawing, idea sharing, and exhibitions.
On the ground floor, the Learning Commons connects directly to an external exploratory nature play space centred around the existing Norfolk Island pine tree.
This connection fosters opportunities for both teachers and students to engage with the natural environment and extend learning outdoors.
PROJECT CREDITS
Project size 1430 m 2
Project budget AUD 7,000,000
Completion date 2024
Building levels 1
Architect DesignInc
Photographer Simon Bennett
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Discover Billi on Bimstore
Bimstore is pleased to welcome Billi to the platform, an Australian manufacturer known for high-quality filtered water systems for both commercial and residential applications. With over 35 years of experience, Billi has built a strong reputation for combining smart design with efficient performance, offering solutions that meet the everyday demands of modern buildings.
Founded in Australia and now supplying products internationally, Billi continues to lead in the development of underbench boiling, chilled, sparkling and ambient filtered water systems. These are widely used across workplaces, hospitality settings, public buildings and homes. Their systems are designed with both the end user and the environment in mind, helping to create clutterfree spaces without compromising on function.
Billi’s products are well known for their efficient operation and space-saving design. Unlike traditional water systems, their units sit neatly beneath the bench, freeing up surface areas and maintaining the clean lines often required in contemporary interiors. The technology inside each product is built to work quietly and reliably, using features like
heat-exchange recovery, stand-by modes and water-saving controls.
This level of design detail means Billi systems are more than practical; they also contribute to energy savings over time. Their safety mechanisms and long product life make them a dependable choice across a wide variety of settings.
A Clear Focus on Sustainability
Billi places environmental responsibility at the heart of its work. Their products are manufactured in certified carbon-neutral facilities, and the company operates under ISO 14001 environmental standards. Attention is given to material selection, recyclability and packaging, ensuring the environmental impact is kept to a minimum.
In addition, Billi takes part in wider sustainability efforts through recognised carbon offsetting and climate programmes. Choosing Billi helps clients and designers meet their environmental goals and work towards improved sustainability standards in their projects.
Built for the Design and Construction Process
To support architects and specifiers, Billi has produced a full set of BIM files, which are now available on Bimstore. These digital models are designed to help professionals incorporate Billi products into their designs with confidence. Each model contains the key information needed for specification.
Whether you’re designing a workplace kitchen, a public amenities space, or a highend residential interior, Billi’s digital tools make it easier to select and apply the right system at the right stage of a project.
A Strong Addition to the Bimstore Community
With Billi joining Bimstore, our users now have access to one of Australia’s most trusted water system brands. Their products offer a reliable way to bring filtered water to buildings in a way that supports both quality and efficiency. We’re proud to host Billi’s content and to support their continued growth in new markets. Explore their full BIM range today on Bimstore and discover the benefits of clean, practical and environmentally responsible water system design.
Adelaide Botanic High School | Cox Architecture and DesignInc
PHOTOGRAPHER PETER CLARKE
The expansion increased the school’s capacity by 700 students, bringing the total student capacity to 1950 students.
The expansion of Adelaide Botanic High School (ABHS) was officially unveiled at a special event held within the school’s newly completed South Tower. The milestone further reinforces the school’s standing as a benchmark-setting institution in South Australia’s public education landscape.
“The expansion is highly connected to the first stage building via link bridges on all levels and offers a range of technology-rich general and specialist learning areas accommodating the additional 700 students and the school’s future requirements,” says COX Associate Director, Gianni Francisco.
“We received invaluable feedback from students and teachers from the first stage of Adelaide Botanic High School that informed key design decisions for the School’s recently completed expansion.”
Cox Architecture and DesignInc were originally awarded the design contract for ABHS in 2015. The initial project involved transforming the former 1960s Reid Building into South Australia’s first vertical school.
Completed in 2018 and opened in 2019, Stage 1 received widespread recognition, earning accolades such as the Dr John Mayfield Award for Educational Architecture, the Robert Dickson Award for Interior Architecture, and the Derrick Kendrick Award for Sustainable Architecture.
Following the success of the initial development, COX was again appointed in 2022 to lead the design for the school’s expansion. The new development adds over 9,000 square metres of learning areas and accommodates an additional 700 students.
Drawing on insights from the original project and through extensive community engagement, the expansion builds on ABHS’s progressive pedagogical approach and architectural identity.
Strategically located just south of the existing school, the expansion site capitalises on its proximity to the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, Adelaide Zoo, Lot Fourteen Innovation Precinct, the University of Adelaide, and the Riverbank.
The building strengthens the school’s civic presence along Frome Road, aligning with the historic Barr Smith line to contribute to a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly urban boulevard. At ground level, the design promotes permeability and movement through the site, enhancing connectivity and public amenity.
The expansion was conceived as a seamless continuation of the existing school, with an emphasis on creating interconnected learning communities. Inspired by the architectural language of the original campus, where facades reveal inner workings of learning, the addition continues to place education visibly at the forefront of the city.
The new spaces support specialist programs and are designed with a clear connection to nearby industry and tertiary partners, particularly within the Lot Fourteen Innovation Precinct. Through deliberate alignment of program and form, the school physically and symbolically integrates with Adelaide’s broader innovation ecosystem.
Key functions including the library, gym, performing arts centre, administration, and flexible learning spaces are arranged to promote
collaboration and adaptability, forming a dynamic network of precincts that elevate the overall educational experience.
Building on the first stage’s “Living System” concept, which imagined the campus as a space that adapts and evolves through ongoing dialogue with community and context, the expansion introduces a “New Living System.”
Grounded in biophilic design principles, this next-generation vision connects learning environments with nature to support wellbeing and holistic education. Two core ideas underpin the design: Interior as ecosystem, and space as possibility.
Spaces are imagined not as isolated rooms but as interdependent environments, with natural patterns influencing materiality, circulation, and spatial character.
Flexible, responsive, and purposeful, space is treated as an active agent for learning. It can shift from personal retreat to collaborative hub, offering endless opportunities for students and educators to engage, reflect, and grow.
PROJECT CREDITS
Completion date 2022
Architect Cox Architecture and DesignInc
Photographer Peter Clarke
Supporting Architectural Specification
INSPIRE provides architects with expert consulting for metal cladding and roofing, offering guidance on performance, compliance, warranties, and material selection. Backed by UniCote® (pre-painted steel and aluminium), VMZINC® and Nordic Copper, our expert support and CPDs help you design and specify with clarity and confidence to deliver better-built outcomes.
Decorative cladding in educational applications
WORDS MATTHEW MCDONALD
The best cladding options for schools and other educational facilities are not just fire safe, durable, and easy to maintain, they also provide architects with the versatility they need to create spaces that are conducive to learning.
When specifying cladding for projects like schools, universities, and colleges, there are several key factors to consider.
Safety and compliance are, of course, the most important of these. Paramount in all public buildings, fire safety is a non-negotiable for environments in which children and young people spend so much of their time.
Beyond this, durability and cost effectiveness are also high on the priority list. Considering the ever-present budget constraints associated with projects of this type, materials and products that can handle the demands of high traffic environments are always welcome, as are those with low maintenance requirements and a capacity for weather resistance.
Given the role aesthetics plays in creating a positive, productive learning environment, design flexibility is another plus.
Indeed, as Fairview points out right now biophilic design principles are informing the design of educational facilities. Increasingly, specifiers are being drawn to cladding materials with a natural-look and tactile finishes that bring a sense of warmth and texture to learning spaces.
An organisation dedicated to the manufacture and supply of aesthetically pleasing and compliant cladding panels, Fairview offers several products that are suitable for projects of this type.
The first of these, Genesis offers impact resistance, is non-combustible and compliant for large-scale building insurance. Available in a variety of profiles and colours, it is a reliable, low-maintenance option for both interior and exterior applications.
Clayton, another option from Fairview is
a terracotta tile system intended to bring warmth, texture, and natural character to learning environments; while Vitradual, a solid aluminium cassette system, offers high durability and UV stability in a noncombustible format.
As the company notes, it is well suited to applications in which both design flexibility and long-term performance are priorities.
Finally, Vitracore G2 is an engineered aluminium panel with a proven track record in the education sector. Lightweight yet robust, it provides a cost-effective cladding solution with crisp detailing and a broad colour range.
According to the company, all four systems are fully compliant and non-combustible. As such, they provide confidence and long-term assurance for education sector projects.
ABOVE Monash University / University Teaching and Learning Building / INSPIRE
SUSTAINABLE BUILDING STARTS WITH MONDOCLAD ®
MondoClad® is shaping inspired learning environments across Australia’s education sector.
In Darwin’s CBD, Charles Darwin University’s ‘Danala’ Precinct stands as a vibrant community hub.
Designed by MODE and built by DCOH, its striking facade features MondoClad®, Australia’s fi rst solid aluminium panel to achieve a full suite of green certifi cations. It offers durability, low maintenance, and sustainable design for future-focused education spaces.
LEFT Monash University / University Teaching and Learning Building / INSPIRE BELOW Decjuba Head Office / UniCote Coastal.
Paramount in all public buildings, fire safety is a non-negotiable for environments in which children and young people spend so much of their time.
DESIGN, SUSTAINABILITY, AND PERFORMANCE
According to Network Architectural, while the shift toward non-combustible cladding is now an essential baseline, the real evolution associated with this change lies in how architects are using compliant materials to unlock broader design, sustainability, and performance outcomes.
In addition, according to the company, there has been a rise in customisation, with schools and universities wanting to reflect their identity through tailored colours and finishes; and a move toward multi-functional cladding systems that can deliver aesthetic impact, ease of installation, durability, and thermal performance in a single solution.
In terms of products, Network Architectural offers Alpolic NC/A1, a non-combustible mineral core aluminium cladding that offers a range of benefits, including safety, performance, and design flexibility.
Manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., it has achieved a Euroclass A1 fire rating and is therefore ideal for projects in the educational sector.
Beyond compliance, Alpolic NC/A1 offers an ultra-flat finish that resists oil canning, a wide range of colours and finishes (including timber, stone, and custom hues), and a 20-year full cover manufacturer’s warranty.
However, according to Network Architectural, what sets Alpolic NC/A1 apart is its low lifecycle cost. Unlike many other facade materials, it doesn’t require ongoing maintenance to uphold its 20-year full cover manufacturer’s warranty, a major cost-saving advantage for schools with limited operational budgets.
Its ultra-flat finish ensures a consistently clean appearance across large surfaces and it comes in a wide range of colours and finishes, including timber-look and custom options to reflect school branding or design intent. It’s also lightweight and easy to install, helping minimise on-site disruption during construction or upgrades.
Manufactured in Japan under an ISOcertified process, the product’s mineral core contains zero polyethylene and is therefore safer and more stable than alternatives when heated. Its excellent rigidity, fire performance, and visual consistency make it a go-to choice for projects, like those in the educational sector, where quality and compliance cannot be compromised.
THE IMPORTANCE OF PRODUCT SELECTION
Beginning with an understanding that, when it comes to cladding for educational buildings, durability, compliance, and aesthetic versatility are all key, HVG Facades works closely with architects and specifiers to ensure the right material is selected for each project brief.
This is the case regardless of whether the focus of the project in question is on performance, cost-effectiveness, creative design, or any other consideration.
The company recommends MondoClad – a premium 3mm solid aluminium panel known for its fire performance, weather resistance, and long-lasting finish – for external facades and school entrances that need to stand the test of time; and Nucleo – a product that combines a clean, prefinished look with flatness and high performance in terms of both fire safety and sustainability – as a good fit for those aiming to meet Green Star or WELL certification targets.
Alternatively, those looking for a product for installation in busy school environments may be attracted to Vetérro – a fibre cement product that has high impact strength and doesn’t require painting or repainting.
Or others may choose Zintl – a cladding option that features interlocking aluminium boards that can be laid in different styles and has the capacity to provide a more architectural finish.
All these products are manufactured with sustainability as a key priority. MondoClad carries an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), a GreenTag PHD PlatinumHEALTH and GreenRate Level A; Nucleo is certified
with GreenTag PHD PlatinumHEALTH and GreenRate Level A (with an EPD to soon follow); and Vetérro is EPD-certified.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Financial considerations and the need to cut the costs of educational projects have resulted in increased usage of prefinished cladding materials.
Products like Cemintel’s prefinished CFC materials, namely Surround Prefinished Cladding and Barestone Original Cladding, deliver the benefits of reduced site time, reduced maintenance requirements, and increased coating life expectancy. In this way, according to the company, they help lower overall costs.
Surround Prefinished Cladding represents a solid choice not just as an exterior cladding solution, but also for interior walling, foyers, reception areas, and so on.
Using express joints and a top hat system, it provides a familiar installation method for commercial cladding, enabling the creation of dynamic geometric patterns with playful colour variations.
According to the company, the prefinished panels feature a smooth, flat texture and are colour-bodied, offering a more natural appearance and richer colour depth than standard painted finishes.
Meanwhile, Barestone Original Cladding, which combines the natural beauty of concrete with the durability of fibre cement, is ideal for façades and interior walls in schools and other educational facilities.
A versatile cladding product, it features express joints that provide clean lines and dynamic patterns. Panels can be oriented vertically or horizontally and arranged according to desired results – randomly, in a linear formation, in a grid layout, and so on.
Available in three products – two exterior options featuring Ceminseal and one interior option with stain resistance – each panel is unique and offers natural variation in terms of colour and pattern.
FORM. FUNCTION. FAÇADE.
Designed for architectural expression and built for Australian conditions, LYSAGHT AZURE® redefines façade performance. Shaped from COLORBOND® steel, it pairs sleek, large-format aesthetics with the durability and efficiency today’s building projects demand. AZURE® is where minimal waste, rapid install and low-maintenance meet stunning design flexibility.
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According to Deco, architects are currently introducing a lot of curves to facades. The introduction of organic shapes and silhouettes is gaining prominence and designers are exploring rounded edges and sculptural contours to add depth and interest to exterior spaces.
In this context, its DecoClad and DecoBatten systems, which feature the company’s DecoWood timber-look finishes achieve elegant curvature without compromising in terms of durability, precision, or material integrity.
Non-Combustible, and weather resistant, both systems require no sanding, painting, or staining. Thanks to their strength and versatility, they are suitable for high traffic areas, in schools, colleges, and so forth.
As is the case with Deco’s other powder coat finishes like DecoCoat and DecoVogue, DecoWood finishes do not emit harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs). As such, they are safe for installation in interior spaces, where safety considerations are paramount.
Installed at the Hunter Sports High School redevelopment, DecoClad Shadowline cladding (in the DecoWood Curly Birch finish) introduces a warm, natural aesthetic.
Incorporated prominently across the office building and soffit lining of the outdoor amphitheatre, the cladding establishes a seamless visual connection across the campus.
Additionally, matching DecoBatten and DecoSlat elements were used across balconies, serving both functional and aesthetic purposes; and providing sunshade while complementing the contemporary architectural style.
With their solid aluminium construction, the Deco products present as non-combustible, low-maintenance alternatives to traditional timber; and prove themselves to be a suitable choice for educational environments.
VISUAL CREATIVITY MEETS SUSTAINABILITY
For its part, in terms of recent developments, INSPIRE points to a growing demand for materials that merge visual creativity with environmental responsibility. Trends include the use of perforated metal screens for solar shading and visual interest, integrated facade systems for thermal performance, and an emphasis on transparency and natural light.
The company says that customisation is also becoming more popular, with architects wanting materials that can be tailored
through perforation patterns, patinas, or custom finishes.
In line with all of this, INSPIRE offers VMZINC’s range of architectural zinc cladding products that are ideally suited to educational settings. More specifically, the range features both natural zinc options such as Azengar and Natural-Zinc, as well pre-weathered products such as Quartz-Zinc, and Anthra-Zinc supplied with pre-patinated surfaces.
The natural zinc options are appealing to architects seeking natural metals which evolve over time, from light silvery grey to a darker matte aesthetic. Pre-weathered zinc finishes are supplied with a more stable finish, which remain more consistent throughout their lifespan.
A pure-zinc material, VMZINC is a suitable choice for perforated screens. Its exposed edges naturally develop a protective patina, eliminating concerns about delamination of paint or coatings.
On top of that, in educational settings, perforated facades can manage daylight, reduce glare, and contribute to acoustic comfort –all while creating a distinctive architectural identity that inspires learning and engagement.
Durability meets safety and sustainability
WORDS MATTHEW MCDONALD
High-traffic spaces like those typically found in schools, colleges, and other places of learning, require paints and coatings that are not only environmentally friendly but also durable and easy to maintain.
BELOW Haymes Paint was used at Wesley College’s Clunes Campus / Supplied
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Join us this November 19, 2025, for the Sustainability Summit. Discover regenerative architecture, circular construction practices, and the electrification of everything under the sun. Explore how AI is transforming the built environment and uncover the secrets of sustainable urban masterplanning. Learn how new construction methods, wellbeing-led design, and bold solutions to Australia’s housing crisis are shaping the future.
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Hear from 40+ experts in sustainability and industry leaders
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10 PANELS. 1 DAY. UNLIMITED INSIGHTS.
SPEAKER
Dr Peter Tonkin
PANEL TOPICS
Panel 1: The latest trends in designing for health & wellbeing
Panel 2: Is a circular built environment possible and if so, how?
Panel 3: Tackling Australia’s housing crisis. Do we really have a solution?
Panel 4: Electrifying everything under the sun
Panel 5: The embodied carbon dilemma for commercial buildings: Demolish, retrofit, or rebuild?
Panel 6: The secrets of success behind master planning urban precincts
Panel 7: How can AI help with sustainability in the built environment?
Panel 8: Regenerative Architecture: Beyond sustainability with biomimicry
Panel 9: Embracing modern construction methods & ideas: From assembly site to construction site
Panel 10: Climate change and the insurance industry - what does the future hold?
Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects
Julie Miao Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, University of Melbourne
Saul Griffi th Engineer, Entrepreneur, and Author
Annie Tennant NSW Dept of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure
Katherine Featherstone Green Building Council of Australia
The take-away from all of this is clear. VOCs are to be avoided and, when sourcing paints, stains, and coatings, specifiers should seek out low VOC options.
As is the case for products of all types, assessing the sustainability of architectural products involves understanding their environmental impacts through all lifecycle stages, from the extraction of the raw materials used in their manufacture, to the manufacturing process itself, the transportation of the finished products, their installation, use, maintenance requirements, and end-of life management.
For some types of products, this lifecycle assessment includes checking whether they include volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Defined by Australia’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) as an “organic compound that participate in atmospheric photochemical reactions”, can sometimes be found in common household products like aerosols, detergents, adhesives, and cosmetics, as well as building materials like carpets and furniture.
Thanks to factors like their capacity to achieve a smooth, even application and promote fast drying, VOCs are also found in some paints, stains, and coatings.
However, as DCCEEW also notes, they also have a significant downside. Depending on the VOC in question, their concentration, and the length of exposure, their negative effects on human health can include irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat; headaches; loss of coordination; nausea; and damage to the liver, kidney, and central nervous system.
According to the DCCEEW, “some VOCs can cause cancer in animals, and some are suspected or are known to cause cancer in humans”.
The take-away from all of this is clear: VOCs are to be avoided and, when sourcing paints, stains, and coatings, specifiers should seek out low VOC options.
EDUCATIONAL APPLICATIONS
Applicable to all types of architectural work, this piece of advice is particularly pertinent in the case of educational projects. That said, what are the other key considerations in this type of work?
“In educational environments, paints and coatings must go beyond sustainability to meet the practical demands of durability, hygiene, safety, and cost-effectiveness,” says Tony Watling, CEO of Ecotone Coatings.
“Schools, universities, and other learning spaces experience heavy daily use and require surfaces that can withstand high traffic, frequent cleaning, and evolving health standards.”
According to Watling, the company’s latest low-VOC innovations, which are intended to enhance health, safety, aesthetics, and sustainability, address the unique challenges that schools and universities face.
For Ecotone Coatings, the focus is on two main product lines, its Internal Functional Coatings and Material Finishes.
“Our clear internal coatings are engineered to actively reduce odours, viruses, bacteria, and mould – even in low or no-light conditions –making them especially valuable in educational spaces where large numbers of students and staff gather, such as classrooms, corridors, and bathrooms,” says Watling.
Developed using advanced Japanese technology and rigorously tested to meet high standards, these coatings significantly reduce the need for frequent, intensive cleaning or costly remediation.
“For example, our Clean and Protect Shield and Anti-Odour Coating has been successfully applied in the bathrooms at St Luke’s Grammar School, where it has markedly cut odour issues
and simplified cleaning routines,” says Watling. Similar coatings have also been used to reduce the risk of viral transmission in other high-use internal environments, including the Flower Power HQ and a global toy brand’s corporate offices. These applications not only improve comfort and wellbeing but also support facility managers in maintaining hygienic, safe spaces with less effort.
Meanwhile, Ecotone Coatings’ Material Finishes range offers a sustainable, efficient way to replicate the appearance of natural materials such as concrete, wood, metal, corten, and stone.
According to Watling, this ensures architects and designers have the flexibility to achieve high-end aesthetics while overcoming traditional material constraints like cost, weight, and fire safety.
“Together, these product lines demonstrate Ecotone’s commitment to delivering innovative, sustainable coatings that support healthier, safer, and more visually appealing educational environments,” says Watling.
By reducing maintenance needs, enhancing durability, and expanding design possibilities, these products help schools and universities create spaces that inspire learning while protecting occupants and the environment.
ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION
According to Peter Lewis Paints, a natural paint company that manufactures and supplies paint products and special finishes derived from plant-based resins and natural pigments, specifiers wanting to know about VOC content should look for appropriately certified products. Without such documentation, they cannot be sure of what they are getting.
The company’s Natural Emulsion Eggshell,
for example, is certified according to the requirements of Global Greentag.
One supplier in Australia that makes entirely sustainable paint products and special finishes derived from plant-based resins and natural pigments, Peter Lewis Paints offers products in a range of 275 colours.
These colours are made in four signature paint types: Natural Emulsion Eggshell, Natural Emulsion Dead Flat, Natural Emulsion Low Sheen, and Natural Emulsion Satin Trim.
Beyond this, Peter Lewis Paints also offer these colours in a range of completely natural and sustainable special finishes, including lime render, lime fresco, limewash and distemper. Importantly, all contain zero VOCs.
The company’s linseed oil paint is ground through a traditional roller mill, combining pigments and oils to create a paint that is able to penetrate through bare timber. Unlike waterbased enamels, this characteristic inhibits the trapping of water and minimises the possibility of wood rot.
Meanwhile, the mineral silicate paint, which
is formulated without any acrylic additive, has a natural curing that penetrates bare concrete, brick or masonry surfaces and crystallises. In this way, it allows walls to let moisture out. As used at Scots College in Sydney, the result is a beautiful, soft appearance.
THE ROLE OF COLOUR
According to Dulux, a supplier with a long history of work within the sector, colour is another key factor to consider when specifying paints in educational projects. Beyond aesthetic appeal, colour has the capacity to influence thinking and emotions; to inspire creativity and help establish mood.
For example, cool blues and greens can promote focus and reduce anxiety, while warm tones can foster a welcoming and engaging environment.
In terms of products, Dulux recommends paints like its envirO2 range. Premium acrylic products, which deliver in terms of both performance and ease of application, the range
has an independently verified and registered Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) and is certified according to the requirements of both Global GreenTag and Declare Red List Free.
According to the company, this enhanced green certification means envirO2 may be used to achieve credits on green building projects such as GreenStar, WELL and Living Building Challenge (LBC).
Featuring very low levels of VOC, products in the range are also characterised by low levels of odour. In addition, envirO₂’s interior and ceiling formulations help prevent the growth of mould, which when present, can cause paint coatings to discolour and break down, and also potentially pose a health risk.
Available in a range that includes Preparation, Top Coat (Low Sheen and Matt), Ceiling and Door and Trim paints, the products have been tested for high levels of washability and stain resistance, all of which add to their suitability for application in educational settings.
LEFT Haymes Paint were used at Wesley College’s Clunes Campus / Supplied.
Talking Architecture & Design Podcast
Episode 254:
Kukame McPierzie, Principal at Woods Bagot talks about Perth’s
METRONET Morley-Ellenbrook Line
Designed by Woods Bagot, Perth’s METRONET Morley-Ellenbrook Line creates 21km of new railway track, connecting Perth’s north-eastern suburbs and Perth CBD.
Five new integrated station precincts link various places of character and landscape along the unique Perth Swan Coastal Plain. The MorleyEllenbrook Line represents the most significant expansion of the rail network since the Mandurah Line was built in 2007.
Kukame McPierzie, Principal at Woods Bagot and National Vice-President of the Association of Consulting Architects, and the Project Director on this project, will explain how this huge project was completed.
podcast.architectureanddesign.com.au
Uncovering what really goes on behind the scenes in the world of architecture
and design…
Episode 246:
Powerhouse Photography
Architectural Commission winner Tasha Tylee on light, space & architectural photography
Born and raised in New Zealand, Tasha Tylee is an emerging architectural photographer that has worked with some of Australia’s top firms, most notably capturing Naples Street House by Edition O ce, the 2024 AIA National Winner of The Robin Boyd Award for Residential Architecture Powerhouse has awarded architecture photographer Tasha Tylee the Powerhouse Photography Architectural Photography Commission, a new $20,000 commission project that will see Tylee collaborate with Powerhouse on a major new work over the coming year.
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THIS PAGE Penola Catholic College by Himmel / Supplied
Why classroom acoustics matter more than you think
WORDS STEPHANIE STEFANOVIC
In schools with older buildings, or those with demountables, the acoustics are often not ideal. So what’s the solution?
When classrooms are noisy or have poor acoustics, it’s more than just an annoyance — it has a proven impact on students’ learning.
Research consistently shows that the ability to clearly hear the teacher’s voice is essential for learning. In fact, studies have found that even minor improvements in the classroom signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) can have significant benefits. For example, audiologists often cite that each 3dB improvement in SNR can boost children’s speech perception and comprehension by approximately 10 percent or more.
In schools with older buildings, or those with demountables, the acoustics are often not ideal. Studies have found that demountables can have reverberation times that are significantly longer — sometimes nearly double — compared to those in purpose-built school environments. Longer reverberation times can blur speech and cause significant signal degradation. The materials used (often thin walls, metal frames, or rigid panels) can also result in higher sound reflection, compounding issues with ambient noise. This can reduce speech clarity and impact students’ ability to focus and understand spoken instructions.
That’s why improving acoustics — especially in spaces like demountables or older classrooms — is crucial. One of the most effective ways to do this is by using targeted ceiling and wall acoustic treatments. These solutions are designed to reduce reverberation and absorb excess sound, helping to create a clearer, more
focused acoustic environment. By softening hard surfaces and minimising sound reflections, they help enhance speech intelligibility, making it easier for students to hear, process and retain information.
GOOD ACOUSTICS MEANS GOOD TEACHING ENVIRONMENTS
One effective solution is Autex’s Cube panel, which the company describes as a lightweight yet durable material that is suitable for ceilings and walls, providing a seamless aesthetic and excellent sound absorption.
“Good acoustics are vital in learning environments to minimise noise distractions, improve speech clarity and support focus,” explains Rob Jones, Technical and Development Manager at Autex Acoustics.
“With an NRC of up to 0.80 (meaning 80% of sound is absorbed), Cube absorbs sound effectively, creating quieter, more productive spaces. Its lightweight, durable design works equally well as a ceiling or wall solution, offering flexibility for diverse educational needs.”
According to Jones, what sets Cube apart is its sustainability credentials.
“Made from a minimum of 80% recycled PET, it’s certified carbon neutral and low VOC, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Its lightweight, durable structure offers superior acoustic performance while meeting green building standards.”
Cube acoustic panels were used in Firbank Grammar’s new arts precinct, designed by PTID Architects. The project was a redevelopment of the school’s historical 1909 Louis Williams Hall, with the aim to blend heritage charm with modern functionality.
The design retained the building’s original facade, form, staircase, and Juliet balconies, celebrating its rich history while introducing contemporary glass extensions that flood the interiors with an abundance of natural light.
Envisioned as a multi-modal learning environment, the hall needed to accommodate activities including ceramics, painting, sculpture, digital media, dance, and drama — making it a vibrant hub for learning, performance, and community engagement.
However, acoustics were a challenge from the beginning, as the architects had to contend with hard, reflective surfaces throughout the space.
“I wanted to ensure that sound was an asset not a barrier when experiencing the voluminous space,” says Ben Lornie, Director at PTID Architects.
Working collaboratively alongside PTID, Autex’s design team explored the challenges and opportunities for acoustics to be sensitively integrated into the existing heritage fabric.
The outcome was a custom ceiling solution using strips of 12mm Cube Acoustic Panel in Parthenon shaped into a honeycomb pattern. Each strip was fixed at various points using extrusions, then secured to a backing panel and fixed to the ceiling.
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The honeycomb pattern creates an eye-catching and modern sculptural feature that contrasts against the surrounding brick surfaces, while adding depth to the vast space.
Cube’s structural integrity enables it to maintain its form without extra framing. This, combined with its inherent flexibility, gave PTID designers the freedom to create a unique pattern without compromising durability.
The result is a multipurpose space that inspires students and encourages collaboration and exploration.
MAKING ACOUSTIC SYSTEM INSTALLATION EASIER
Another practical approach for education spaces is Knauf’s Stratopanel acoustic system. Knauf describes Stratopanel as an advanced acoustic ceiling system designed to enhance sound quality and comfort in interior spaces. It features high acoustic performance and offers six edge-to-edge perforation patterns, providing both design flexibility and ease of installation.
Stratopanel is a solution developed by Knauf, including a range of six perforated ceiling panels, Knauf Insulation, Uniflott jointing compound and Rondo 605 furring channels. Together, these elements deliver seamless integration, high performance, and a streamlined installation process.
According to Knauf, what sets Stratopanel apart from other acoustic solutions is its innovative UFF edge profile, which ensures precise alignment of panels and seamless continuity of perforation patterns. This unique edge design, combined with the use of Uniflott jointing and topping compounds, allows for the creation of a tapeless joint that appears completely seamless when installed.
Poor acoustics in classrooms can lead to increased stress, reduced focus and hindered communication between teachers and students. Stratopanel helps mitigate these challenges by reducing noise reverberation and improving sound clarity, creating an environment where speech is more intelligible, and distractions are minimised. This facilitates better teaching and learning experiences, ultimately enhancing educational outcomes.
One good case study for Stratopanel is its use in Nazareth Catholic College, an independent co-educational school in Adelaide, South Australia. The project involved designing a new senior school campus, with the brief calling for it to serve as a seamless extension of the existing campus facilities.
In terms of acoustics, architects Russell & Yelland felt Stratopanel was the right choice for this project — not only because it’s consistent with the school’s other buildings, but also because of the product’s sustainable design and superior acoustic performance.
“Stratopanel by Knauf has acoustic properties that are essential in a learning environment,” says Hariklia Pontikinas, Associate Architect, Russell & Yelland.
“With high-level noise absorption treatment, the Stratopanel by Knauf panels were the ideal choice for the Nazareth Catholic College expansion.
“Not only do they ensure that the open quiet space cancels out external noise, empowering students to focus on their studies, but they also ensure teachers don’t need to strain their voices for students to hear them.”
A total of 2,378sqm of 12/20/66R pattern Stratopanel was installed across 85% of the ceilings throughout the project, including foyers, corridors, learning areas, and the principal’s office. For added effect, and to complement the high-end finishes throughout the campus, panels used throughout the project were painted white and dark green.
“It ticked every box for this build and was an easy choice,” adds Pontikinas.
THE IMPORTANCE OF REDUCING REVERBERANT NOISE
According to acoustic solutions specialist Acoustek, the current trend is to stick 12mm PET panels with grooved patterns directly onto walls in the hope of reducing reverberant noise. However, this treatment can be expensive to install and remove, with no possibility to re-use the material. Acoustek says that using the product in this way has a maximum of 40% noise absorption with 60% reflection of noise back into the room — resulting in high expense for a small acoustic result.
In contrast, Acoustek’s acoustic product is easily fitted, removed, and relocated, with higher noise absorption and improved aesthetics, whether the aim is to differentiate from or blend into existing decor. According to the company, its Opus Vibrato Plus Acoustic Blade/Baffle system achieved up to 97% absorption of reverberant noise during testing — officially listed as NRC 0.95, placing it among the top-performing acoustic solutions on the market.
For a solution with a strong focus on sustainability, Baresque’s Zintra Acoustic Solutions meet the Global Recycled Standard, with their PET being made of 100% recyclable content. That’s 60% post-consumer recycled fibre, 35% pre-consumer fibre and 5% bio-based fibre.
The product line includes Zintra Premium Wood, a photorealistic, lightweight, and easy-to-fabricate alternative to real wood that features prints of 12 artisan species from around the world, such as maple, redwood, white oak, and Australian walnut. There is also a Premium Materials collection designed to
recreate the aesthetics of architectural finishes including terrazzo, travertine, concrete and terracotta.
According to the company, its wide range of acoustic products, versatile applications and expert consulting services deliver effective solutions for spaces that help support mental health by reducing cognitive fatigue, improving communication, and fostering a sense of calm across learning environments.
This is exemplified by Zintra’s use at Westcare Early Learning Centre in Adelaide, designed by D’Andrea Architects. The goal was to create a nurturing, acoustically comfortable environment that supports children’s wellbeing and development. Zintra’s Box Baffles Random were chosen as the acoustic solution, not only due to their strong acoustic diffusion properties, but also for the inherent design advantage of their box shape.
The internal air gap within each baffle significantly boosts the NRC rating by capturing sound energy inside, acting like a spring that enhances absorption and reduces reverberation. This helped the designers reduce noise, minimise sensory overload and foster a calm, focused learning environment throughout the centre.
The Box Baffles were selected in Spotted Gum and Eucalyptus timbers, combining acoustic performance with a cohesive aesthetic that perfectly complemented the neutral tones and natural materials used throughout the centre. At the same time, the baffles created a visually engaging element on the ceilings of the centre — an element that can spark curiosity and creativity in young minds.
The result was a space that not only meets the acoustic needs of the centre but also reflects its approach to early childhood development.
IMPROVING ACOUSTICS IN A RANGE OF EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENTS
For those looking for a solution made from natural wood, the Troldtekt acoustic panels (supplied by CSR Himmel) are cementbonded wood wool panels designed to improve acoustics in a range of environments. According to the supplier, the combination of wood and cement results in unique sound-absorbing properties, ensuring excellent acoustics in any room. The panels can be installed on ceilings and walls, either directly onto wooden battens or in a suspended profile system.
Available in various textures and patterns, the panels allow for creative and aesthetic flexibility. Troldtekt acoustic tiles also have a Group 1 fire certification and can handle moist environments, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, particularly in sporting halls and indoor pools.
SUPPLIERS
Autex Acoustics autexacoustics.com.au
Knauf knauf.com/en-AU
SUPAWOOD supawood.com.au
Acustek acoustek.com.au
Acoufelt acoufelt.com
Baresque baresque.com.au
Woven Image wovenimage.com/en-AU
Himmel himmel.com.au
An example of these panels in use can be seen in Penola Catholic College, a secondary school located in the Melbourne suburb of Broadmeadows. To create a mature and flexible learning environment for its year 12 students, the college decided to expand its campus by adding a modern, university-style senior learning facility.
One of the key challenges was addressing the acoustic requirements of these new spaces, especially considering that large, open areas like hallways and auditoriums tend to struggle with echo and ambient noise, while classrooms need to maintain a quiet environment conducive to learning.
The architectural team from Mclldowie
Partners turned to Himmel Troldtekt Design acoustic panels to address this — marking the first time that Troldtekt Design panels were used in an academic setting.
“[The] acoustic panels offer exceptional sound absorption, while also being sustainable and durable,” says Tony Di Lorenzo, Associate Director of Mclldowie Partners.
“Their unique surface structure reduces reverberation, helping to manage noise effectively while adding a contemporary aesthetic the college was looking for.”
For classrooms, an optimal Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) rating of at least 0.70 is recommended. In combination with specialised insulation, Himmel’s Troldtekt Design panels
can achieve NRC ratings of 0.90 to 0.95, significantly enhancing sound clarity and reducing echo.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal and acoustic benefits, the panels are also designed for easy installation and maintenance. Because the panels are pre-finished and ready to use, there is no need for on-site painting. The panels’ modularity also allows for easy removal, facilitating future adjustments or repairs behind walls and ceilings, which is an important advantage for large public spaces like schools.
“We’ve seen a remarkable improvement in our learning environment, which is exciting as we continue to develop our campus,” says college principal Tracey Kift.
LEFT Stratopanel at Nazareth Catholic College by Knauf.
Resounding lesson in quiet design: Glenroy
Private School’s masterclass in
acoustic
comfort
Sound management is paramount in educational institutions as excessive noise can impact concentration, productivity and well-being, driving a move towards innovative design solutions and materials that emphasise acoustic performance in learning environments. Glenroy Private School, a modern facility alongside Daley Street, exempli es this dynamic shift.
This double-storey building encompasses twelve learning areas, specialised classrooms and staff of ces, and the architects behind the project, McIldowie Partners, were committed to creating an engaging, stimulating, healthy and productive learning space. To prioritise acoustic comfort as part of the design, the team turned to Himmel, an Australian distributor of Troldtekt ceilings and wall panels designed to absorb sound and reduce reverberation. “They have a very high acoustic rating, crucial in educational settings,” explains Larry Li, Director of Super Brothers Construction.
Alongside an outstanding acoustic performance, these cement-bonded wood wool panels are high-performing, creative design solutions. “Troldtekt is pre- nished, decorative, easy to maintain and design- exible,” says Grant Lindsay, CSR’s Speci cation Manager.
“And because it’s timber-based, you can paint, customise and cut it to integrate elements like vents or lights.”
In this instance, the project team selected Troldtekt Grey 202, a versatile acoustic panel with a ne wood chip nish, and Troldtekt Rhomb Mini, a hexagon-shaped acoustic panel with a bevelled edge. The products were seamlessly installed using the durable Rondo Furring Channel, which provided a robust framework for this holistic solution. Troldtekt Grey 202 panels were installed in all classrooms, two large corridors and the staff of ces, effectively controlling reverberation and creating a more focused environment, while the custom formation of the textured Troldtekt Rhomb Mini panels added depth and visual interest to the interiors. “They’re more than just acoustic panels,” Larry enthuses. “They’re a design feature.”
Both acoustic solutions also offer an outstanding environmental pro le. “We want products with good air quality and low emissions,” Grant says. “Especially around children.” The panels are made from FSCcerti ed timber and Troldtekt is Cradle-toCradle certi ed at Gold level, which means they’re free of harmful substances and
contribute to the Green Star certi cation, which is critical for government-funded projects.
Fire safety is another essential consideration in educational facilities. “Most timber products are Group 3 and require sprinklers,” Grant explains. “But Troldtekt – because of its innovative cement-bonded construction –achieves a Group 1 re rating, which is unique for a timber-based product.”
He adds that Troldtekt’s performance can also be customised to meet speci c budget and acoustic requirements, while preventing over-engineering. “The base product provides a certain level of sound absorption, and extra layers can be added to increase it as needed, achieving different levels of acoustic rating.”
“When I talk to architects, these are the key things they ask about: acoustic performance, re rating, price, design exibility, colour range and speed of installation,” Grant sums up. “Troldtekt ticks all the boxes.” And so does the Glenroy Private School. This modern project demonstrates that acoustic comfort, engaging aesthetics, environmental responsibility and re safety can be successfully – and quietly –integrated, setting a new benchmark for the educational typology.
Coronation Drive
By Punch Design, Belnic, and Alset Joinery
Photography Pixel Collective
Bleached
Cuneo Oak H3311 ST28
Smarter spaces: The rise of adaptive and sustainable furniture in education
WORDS CLÉMENCE CARAYOL
Educational environments are undergoing a quiet revolution. Where once there were rigid desks and fixed seating, we are now falling off our chairs as we see agile layouts, modular designs and furniture that thinks ahead.
As schools, colleges and universities adapt to evolving pedagogical needs, a new class of smart and sustainable furniture is emerging, designed not only to last, but to flex, connect and include.
Four companies, namely Living Edge, K5 Furniture, Furnware and Zenith Interiors, are reshaping how educational spaces look, feel and function.
From tech-enabled desks to ergonomic chairs and modular lounge seating, each brand brings a different philosophy to what makes furniture “smart.” But they share a common goal: to support the diverse, dynamic ways students learn today.
For Tim Bachelor, Senior Education Consultant at Living Edge, smart furniture isn’t defined by its digital capabilities alone.
“At Living Edge, we define smart furniture not simply as tech-enabled, but as adaptive, scalable design that evolves alongside the needs of modern education,” he says. “We champion the principle of Furniture for Life, pieces
that endure, supporting long-term use across dynamic learning environments.”
The company’s educational range includes designs from Herman Miller, Muuto, Derlot, Magis and more. It features flexible products like the Herman Miller OE1 table and Fuld nesting chair, which allow rapid reconfiguration and support a variety of learning modes.
“Furniture such as the Herman Miller Atlas or Ratio sit-to-stand desk and ergonomic task seating supports wellbeing and concentration through intelligent design and integrated movement,” says Bachelor.
“ZETR power solutions can be embedded into select pieces, allowing seamless technological integration for charging and connectivity, without compromising on design.”
“In 2024, Living Edge collaborated with Xavier College and MGS Architects to furnish the Kostka building, a purpose-built environment designed to support the evolving needs of Year 7 and 8 students. The project
highlighted the value of flexible furniture in education, with products selected for their adaptability and long-term relevance,” he says.
“Herman Miller’s OE1 modular tables were installed throughout the classrooms, offering immediate flexibility to align with the school’s current teaching methods. Just as importantly, their modular and sustainable design ensures they can be easily reconfigured as the school’s pedagogical approach continues to evolve.
“In breakout areas, Derlot’s Prisma seating was used to create informal, student-led zones that encourage autonomy and adaptability. The lightweight, movable nature of the furniture empowers students to shape their environment to suit a range of learning styles and activities.”
Living Edge’s range meets high standards in both sustainability and ergonomics. “Many of the products in our range meet or exceed leading environmental standards, including GECA and GreenTag certifications, and are made using responsibly sourced materials such
ABOVE Living Edge collaborated with Xavier College and MGS Architects to furnish the Kostka building / Andrew Latreille
as FSC-certified wood. Low-VOC manufacturing processes are also prioritised to support healthier indoor air quality,” Bachelor notes.
“In terms of durability and ergonomic performance, our offering aligns with recognised benchmarks including AFRDI, BIFMA, and ISO standards, ensuring the furniture stands up to the rigours of daily use in busy education settings while also supporting comfort and proper posture.”
Accessibility is another essential component.
“Living Edge’s flexible furniture solutions are designed with inclusivity at their core, ensuring that all students can participate equally and comfortably in learning environments,” Bachelor says.
“Height-adjustable tables and desks provide accessibility for wheelchair users and others with varying physical needs, making it easier to personalise space for individual comfort and functionality. Lightweight, movable pieces allow students and educators alike to reconfigure
layouts without physical strain, promoting independence and autonomy.
“Soft seating and modular breakout areas offer quieter, low-stimulation spaces that support neurodiverse learners, giving them the freedom to choose how and where they engage. Additionally, products like the Gargantua table from Extremis exemplify universal design thinking, featuring adjustable bench heights that cater to users of all ages and abilities, including space for wheelchair users.”
According to Bachelor, this ensures that communal learning and gathering spaces remain welcoming and functional for everyone.
For K5 Furniture, the notion of “smart” is more about spatial intelligence than embedded tech.
“The Inno Play Sofa, designed by Finnish designer Vertti Kivi, is a modular seating solution that adapts seamlessly to dynamic learning environments. Unlike conventional educational furniture, its distinctive ‘playful’
geometry and flexibility allow for endless spatial configurations, from individual focus pods to collaborative clusters,” says K5 Furniture CEO and Founder Erna Walsh.
“What sets it apart is not just its modularity, but its capacity to encourage spontaneous interaction, informal learning, and adaptable public space design. Manufactured under license in Australia, it combines global design excellence with local production capability.”
The sofa’s design encourages active participation and creativity, especially in informal settings.
“Design-wise, the Play Sofa facilitates movement, comfort, and creativity—three vital pillars in contemporary education.
Its reconfigurable modules support agile learning spaces that can shift with teaching requirements,” says Walsh.
“While not a digital ‘smart’ product in the traditional sense, its smartness lies in its intuitive adaptability: it allows students and educators to co-create the spatial experience.
Optional features such as integrated power outlets or device charging stations enable seamless technology integration, supporting device-based learning without sacrificing aesthetic cohesion.” In one standout project, the Play Sofa helped redefine campus spaces at Monash University.
“As a mode of connection within public spaces, the play sofa sits with Monash University as part of the Adaptive Reuse project by NH Architecture. This initiative focused on improving connectivity between existing campus buildings, turning transitional zones into engaging, student-friendly commons,” says Walsh.
“The Play Sofa played a key role in creating these vibrant, informal spaces where students could pause, collaborate, or recharge. Feedback from students and staff highlighted its positive impact on flow, usability, and atmosphere, transforming underused corridors into social and study destinations.”
Inclusivity is also baked into the product’s DNA. “The Play Sofa’s modularity allows it to be configured with accessibility in mind, including wheelchair-compliant arrangements and clear path-of-travel considerations,” Walsh explains.
“Modules can be spaced to provide easy access, and optional backrests and armrests offer additional support for users with mobility or posture-related needs. With varying depths on the module pieces, the sofa enables various ways of sitting on the sofa, whether it requires feet on the floor, cross-legged or legs up.
“The low height of seating also makes it approachable for users of all ages and abilities, ensuring that comfort, community, and inclusivity are not just design intentions but lived experiences.”
At Furnware, comfort and focus are the main goals behind the Bodyfurn Flex range.
“The Bodyfurn Flex range is an ergonomic seating solution designed to support movement, comfort, and focus in learning environments,” says Matt Whyte, Director at Furnware.
“Its unique design allows the seat and back to move independently with the user, encouraging healthy posture and reducing fatigue. Made from durable, recyclable materials, it delivers both functional and environmental performance.”
“The design supports a variety of postures and activities. “Bodyfurn Flex improves comfort and concentration through dynamic movement,” he says.
“The contoured seat supports a range of postures, including side-facing and collaborative seating, making it ideal for flexible learning. It’s also stackable and easy to move, enabling quick reconfiguration to suit various teaching styles and digital learning formats.”
Furnware also points to research to support its claims, such as a recently completed case study at Papanui High School. The research itself is titled ‘Papanui High School | Innovative Classroom Furniture Solutions - Furnware Research: PhD Research Project from the University of Waikato’.
“The overwhelming majority of students reported that Bodyfurn Flex chairs were more comfortable, with the main reason being their flexibility, which allowed them to move naturally and adjust positions or postures as needed.”
Time spent out of their seats decreased by 22%. In-chair movement increased by 11%. Time on-task increased by 10%. Disruptive behaviour decreased by 19%. Furthermore, instances of chair tipping decreased by 81%.
The product is also certified for durability and sustainability.
“Bodyfurn Flex is AFRDI Blue Tick and Green Tick Gold certified, meeting rigorous standards for strength, durability, and environmental performance,” Whyte notes.
“Designed to reduce fatigue and support focus through dynamic movement, it enhances student comfort, wellbeing, and engagement, particularly for those with heightened sensory needs.”
At Zenith Interiors, smart furniture takes a digital turn. Vera Meharg, Marketing Director, explains the concept behind the Orbis Workstation.
“Unlike traditional educational furniture, Zenith’s Orbis Workstation is an adaptive solution that seamlessly blends ergonomic design, integrated technology, and spatial flexibility,” she says.
“Orbis is distinguished by its round, telescopic leg design and clean profile. Available in a wide range of configurations (90, 120 and 180 degree) including single, runs, pods and the dynamic ‘Orbis Pie’ shape, it caters to diverse learning styles from quiet focus to active project-based engagement.”
What really sets Orbis apart is the integration with Zenith Connect. “What sets Orbis apart is its compatibility with Zenith Connect’s desk reservation system by integrating a ‘puck’ that
streamlines check-ins, occupancy tracking, and device charging,” says Meharg.
“This versatile puck empowers students to book a desk while providing valuable insights into space usage. Not just limited to reservations, it also enables wireless or wired charging for phones and laptops. Efficiency is further enhanced through the ‘Swipe for Power’ feature, a power-saving mechanism that keeps below-desk devices inactive until a user checks in, thereby conserving power.
“Adding to its user-centric features, the puck allows immediate desk height adjustments upon check-in. This adaptability benefits students with disabilities enabling easy customisation of their chosen work or study area.”
Deakin University and Matrix Education have already adopted Orbis to support new learning approaches.
“When Deakin University decided to transform their Waurn Ponds KA5 block (which hosts the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment) they wanted a contemporary refresh and ‘future proofing’ to accommodate all types of learning. Orbis was chosen to fulfill this requirement,” she says.
“Likewise, Matrix Education, an Australian leader in tutoring, also recognised the value in Orbis to support individual learning and collaboration, and chose it for their Parramatta facility. Because of its versatility and reconfigurable ease, Orbis was ideally suited to facilitate individual or collaborative learning modes.”
Orbis is also fully compliant with sustainability and ergonomic standards. “Orbis has GECA, Greenguard, PEFC, FSC, AFRDI so it not only meets ergonomic but environmental sustainability standards too,” Meharg says.
From intuitive seating to digitally connected workstations, these brands are redefining what educational furniture can do. Their solutions don’t just fill a room, they shape it. And in doing so, they are helping build learning spaces that are inclusive, future-focused and genuinely supportive of how students work, think and grow.
As Bachelor says, “In every detail, our offering reflects the demands of contemporary education.” That future is already here; and it has a seat, a desk and a power port, all ready for learning.
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Saturday Indesign 2025 will bring together the architecture and design community for a day of curated experiences across Melbourne, including product launches, talks, workshops, hospitality and networking.
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Talking Architecture & Design
Now celebrating its 8th year (Season 9), Talking Architecture & Design is Australia’s rst B2B architecture podcast that regularly talks about a range of issues that affect Australia’s architects, building designers and built environment professionals.
Launched in 2017 as part of the Architecture & Design publishing and news network, Talking Architecture & Design interviews industry leaders, innovators, personalities and a range of industry movers and shakers. With no subject that is off-limits, we talk to those that not only make change happen, but also those that turn that change into industry norms and trends.
EPISODE 258: HOLDING REDLICH SPECIAL COUNSEL KATHARINE HUXLEY ON THE EPBC ACT AMENDMENT AND ITS IMPACT ON FUTURE LAND USE
The Australian Parliament passed the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Amendment (Reconsiderations) Bill 2025, restricting the Minister for the Environment’s power to reconsider certain past decisions under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).
In this interview, Holding Redlich Special Counsel Katharine Huxley, an environment and planning lawyer, explains what this will mean for future land use and environmental management in general.
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BOOK
At the centre of this plan is the launch of the NSW Housing Pattern Book—a collection of architect-designed terraces, townhouses, and manor houses—combined with a world-first Complying Development pathway that promises to cut approval times down to just ten days.
Paul Scully, New South Wales Minister for Planning and Public Spaces joins us to unpack what this all means for families, first-home buyers, downsizers, and builders across the state.
EPISODE 255: GRAPHISOFT GOES FULL CIRCLE & RENEWS ITS FOCUS ON AUSTRALIA’S BUILT ENVIRONMENT. SO WHY DOES THIS MATTER FOR ARCHITECTS?
Based in Germany, Graphisoft CEO Daniel Csillag is a former general manager of Bluebeam and CEO of Nevaris, who in Feb 2024 became CEO of Graphisoft with a focus on strategy, sales & products/services.
Marton Kiss is Graphisoft’s Chief Product Officer and Senior Product Manager.
In this recent interview, Csillag and Kiss describe the evolution of their 3D software has gone through and what this will mean for Australian architects and designers.
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bit.ly/TADPodcast_255
EPISODE 257: PAUL SCULLY, NEW SOUTH WALES MINISTER FOR PLANNING AND PUBLIC SPACES REVEALS ALL ABOUT THE NSW HOUSING PATTERN
EPISODE 251: JEFA GREENAWAY ON THE TRUE MEANING AND VALUE OF DESIGNING FOR COUNTRY
Jefa Greenaway is the Director of Greenaway Architects and an Honorary Fellow of Design at Deakin University and Adjunct Industry Fellow at Swinburne University. He is also a co-founder of several organizations set up to support Indigenous peoples pursuing a career in design.
In this exclusive interview, he talks to TAD about the true meaning and value of Designing for Country.
EPISODE 248: DRAWING PARALLELS BETWEEN FRANCE AND AUSTRALIA WHEN IT COMES TO SUSTAINABILITY IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT WITH HIP V. HYPE’S ALEXANDRA FAURE
In this episode of Talking Architecture & Design, host Clémence Carayol sits down with Alexandra Faure, a French-Venezuelan urbanist and sustainability consultant based in Melbourne.
Whether it’s material reuse, circular economy initiatives, or shifting policy landscapes, this episode is a must-listen for anyone working at the intersection of design, planning, and climate action.
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EPISODE 97: My sustainability journey by 2021 Sustainability Awards Lifetime Achievement winner, Tone Wheeler
EPISODE 91: Stephen Choi talks about biophilic design and the opportunities it brings to architects
EPISODE 52: Koichi Takada talks about sustainable design and how COVID-19 has forever changed how we work, live, and design our buildings
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bit.ly/TADPodcast_248
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IMAGE Wurriki Nyal Civic Precint by Cox Architecture. Photography by Peter Clarke.
Key Open Cell ceiling panels deliver bold geometric style, airflow and acoustic control. Designed for flexibility, they suit education, commercial, retail and public spaces. Lightweight, demountable, and compatible with lighting and HVAC, they’re available in a range of finishes and cell sizes to match any modern design vision.
KI7850 architectureanddesign.com.au
DESIGN-DRIVEN CEILINGS FOR EDUCATION
Elevate learning spaces with durlum bespoke metal ceilings – where form meets function. From the dynamic Meadowbank Education Precinct to Kingswood TAFE and Matthew Pearce Public School, discover ceilings that inspire, perform and transform educational design.
IZ4381 architectureanddesign.com.au
WAVE GRATE LINEAR DRAINAGE BY STORMTECH
The Wave Grate solves a longstanding design challenge, cleverly concealing the channel below through it’s unique profile. Made from low carbon, Australian aluminium that offers both aesthetic appeal, and a uniquely soft feel underfoot. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
PF3033 architectureanddesign.com.au
EQUITONE [INSPIRA]: PURE EXPRESSION OF MATERIALITY
Introducing EQUITONE [inspira], a high density fibre cement panel with a digital printed surface that is smooth, matte, anti-graffiti and UV resistant. Create bespoke designs, with finishes in wood, rust, stone, concrete and nature inspired design.
KNAUF INSULATION’S LATEST SINGLE LAYER CEILING INSULATION FOR NCC COMPLIANCE
Australia's thickest and highest performing ceiling batts have been designed over-wide to knit together to create a continuous layer of insulation and prevent thermal bridging. The R7.0 & R8.0 ceiling batts are designed extra thick and installed in a single layer with no notching.
INTRODUCING THE NEW RONDO BOOSTR BRACKET
- SMALL IN SIZE, BIG ON PERFORMANCE
Engineered to transform steel stud wall construction, Rondo BoostR bracket is a smart solution enabling extended stud spans, increased wall heights, and greater material efficiency by reducing stud width, thickness, and the need for noggings.
AL0922 architectureanddesign.com.au
QL8118 architectureanddesign.com.au
STREAMLINE THE SPECIFICATION CYCLE
Rewriting how door specifications are written. Provide a centralized place to capture and maintain door hardware requirements and decisions, with easy options to push that information back to the design tools (e.g. Revit).
DESIGNERONE®: A COMPLETE DECORATIVE SURFACE SOLUTION
DesignerOne® is ForestOne’s locally manufactured range of decorated panels and laminates, made in Benalla, VIC. With 24 on-trend colours, three refined finishes, and matching laminates and edging, it’s a complete solution for joinery, internal cabinetry, wardrobes, and more.
Our tretford Carpet and Custom Rugs, made from natural goat hair and rich in colour, are ideal for your space. Discover the bold new Eidos Collection by Markian, and explore SynSisal—a durable, sustainable alternative to sisal. Available at Gibbon Architectural.
GL2115 architectureanddesign.com.au
INTRASPACE REVIT BIM CONTENT LIBRARY
Spend less time modelling and more time designing with IntraSpace’s high-quality Revit BIM Content Library, built with IGS BIM Solutions. Includes Loadable Families, Materials, Drafting Views, and a pre-configured Virtual Showroom for easy browsing and QA.
WZ7974 architectureanddesign.com.au
FIRE-RATED PIR INSULATION BOARDS
Engineered for continuous panel production, EcoPearl PIR delivers exceptional thermal insulation, Euroclass B fire performance, and outstanding compressive strength. It’s the reliable choice for safe, energy-efficient construction across industrial and residential applications.
RT0707 architectureanddesign.com.au
FALL PROTECTION WITH DESIGN APPEAL
Engineered elegance meets strength. Ronstan Tensile Architecture's mesh solutions with Carl Stahl X-TEND® provide compliant, transparent fall protection and anti-throw barriers for safety and design freedom. Perfect for elevated spaces and voids, without compromising visual appeal.
Glasshape® provides certified architectural glass for commercial and residential use, offering custom curved solutions through bending, toughening, and laminating. TemperShield® brings over 35 years of global expertise, offering versatile, high-quality glass solutions for diverse projects.
KINGSPAN
K-ROC™ FOR FIRE SAFETY COMPLIANCE
K-Roc™ Karrier Wall Panel is an interlocking, mineral wool core insulated panel designed to support rainscreen systems. It combines the benefits of rapid installation with design flexibility and ease of compliance wherever a non-combustible material is required by the NCC.
PY7430 architectureanddesign.com.au
VP1957 architectureanddesign.com.au
QUIET DESIGN WITH REAPOR PANELS
Reapor recycled glass panels offer an eco-friendly solution for noise control. Used as noise walls, they combine high sound absorption with durability and a clean, modern aesthetic ideal for architectural and urban design projects.
SLEEK DESIGN MEETS FLEXIBLE ACCESS
A sleek, retrofittable smart lock featuring PIN, mobile, and RFID access. Its capacitive touch keypad and seamless integration with many building and user management platforms make it ideal for modern commercial and hospitality projects.
CURVED SECURITY SCREEN
The top-hung curved security screen features no floor track and uses multiple up/down locks for seamless, secure closure. Suitable for schools, counters, shops, and public venues, it accommodates heights up to 4000mm, unlimited widths, and a standard radius of 600mm over a 90-degree curve, making it highly versatile and functional.
ThermalHEARTTM thermally broken aluminium window and door frames feature a polyamide strip that reduces heat and cold transfer, delivering excellent insulation. These windows and doors are up to 32% more energy efficient than standard double glazing.
ZQ9926 architectureanddesign.com.au
CRIMSAFE'S RESILIENCE RANGE IS BUILT FOR MORE
Crimsafe’s Resilience Range is engineered for comprehensive protection against storms, suitable for cyclone regions C&D and tested to withstand wind-borne debris impacts up to 46 m/s (AS 1170.2:2011).
Rated to BAL-FZ, it offers bushfire protection when paired with compliant window systems.
RR4655 architectureanddesign.com.au
COMMERCIAL WALLCOVERINGS BY DREAMSCAPE
DreamScape Novalon is a sustainable, printable commercial wallcovering solution that turns white walls into your desires. Ideal for high-impact interiors, it’s PVC-free and designed to perform across multiple environments such as retail & hospitality— without compromising on quality or eco standards.
NEW RELEASE WEATHERGROOVE FUSION WOODSMAN
Weathergroove Fusion Woodsman is Weathertex’s latest architectural panel, offering a dynamic mix of texture and tone. Also available in Natural and Smooth finishes, it delivers a striking, sustainable solution for modern, design focused facades and interiors. Make the better choice for you and the planet with Weathertex.
SC8761 architectureanddesign.com.au
DS7833 architectureanddesign.com.au
MK9662 architectureanddesign.com.au
SAME SILHOUETTE. NEW STORY.
A collaboration between designer Tom Skeehan and Crafted Hardwoods, the STAY stool has been reimagined to tell a deeper story — about material honesty, circular thinking, and the quiet power of good design. Available exclusively through Crafted Hardwoods.
INTRODUCING THE DINCEL WATERPROOF SYSTEM WARRANTY FOR BASEMENT WALLS
The Dincel Waterproof System Warranty helps to protect buildings from water ingress at the most vulnerable part of the structure. This also reduces the risk of sick building syndrome and related health hazards such as mould and mildew, damage to stored equipment in basements.
PREMIUM COASTAL STEEL
30% thicker protective coating. Magnesium-enhanced protection. UniCote® Coastal is engineered to perform 0 – 400m+ from the shore. Backed by an industry-leading warranty. A steel that heals its own cuts. Specify smarter. Learn more at unicote.com.au
NEW WHITEPAPER
Explore smarter ceiling design for educational spaces
Learn how CSR Himmel and Rondo ceiling systems enhance acoustic performance, thermal comfort, strength and seismic resilience in schools.
Download the whitepaper to access expert insights and practical solutions designed to help architects and designers create exceptional educational facilities to last well into the future.
SCAN HERE TO DOWNLOAD YOUR COPY OF THE WHITEPAPER NOW
TRUECORE® steel delivers a powerful performance at The Round
Defying conventional construction methods, this imposing, curved, red brick facade uses TRUECORE ® steel to provide the structural support for the exterior brick walls that dominate the upper levels of The Round Performing Arts Centre.
This project demonstrates the versatility of light gauge steel framing by combining a ‘brick slip’ facade system with over 160 precision-engineered prefabricated light gauge steel panels to deliver a truly innovative and cost-e ective building solution.
Photography by Derek Swalwell. TRUECORE ®, BlueScope
