Darlington Public School, located on the fringe of the city near the University of Sydney and the eclectic neighbourhoods of Darlington and Newtown, has undergone a significant transformation. Linear brick structures, complementary to the local industrial masonry, house flexible learning hubs, a multi-purpose hall, and support spaces, while a curvilinear perforated metal screen defines fluid, organic movement and gathering areas related to outdoor learning and play.

The redesign prioritises a contemporary learning environment, fostering a safe and inclusive atmosphere for the tight-knit school community. Acknowledging diverse backgrounds, the design integrates the rich Aboriginal People’s culture and artistic heritage, preserving Aboriginal artworks with QR codes for ongoing curation.

Furniture: AWM (Amaroo) – Australia made, Custom-made furniture designed by FJC and fabricated for specific needs. Plywood multifunctional chair which can be used as a table and chair in Kindergarten. Custom-made furniture for open learning spaces to divide open-plan functional spaces, creating different focus areas for students. Custom-made furniture was fabricated by Amaroo (Part of AWM) which is an indigenous company, providing profit back to the community. Zenith (FG)- Australia made, Zenith FG 51% Indigenous owned company, Hightable Cooktown Silver Ash, a Hardwood product exclusively sourced and owned by Indigenous Australians, Beparta, Custom-made size to meet the needs of Primary School students, Apax Kingfisher (Procured by SINSW), Furniture selection was carefully developed together with NLA (New Way Of Learning Consultant). Supporting STEM and educational model developed for Darlington Primary School. FJC promoted Australia based manufactures and locally sourced materials.Finishes: Forbo (vinyl), High Indoor Air Quality and High Greenstar rating, Fully recyclable, Interface (Carpets), Recyclable, Carbon Neutral, Boral (HArdwood floors), Laminex (Joinery), Autex (Pinboards and wall lining ), Scuptform ( Acoustic wall lining ), Dulux ( Interior Paint systems), Dulux ( PowderCoats), MaxiPly ( Joinery), Caesarstone (Joinery), Corian ( Joinery), Kvadrat (Upholstery), Artedomus ( tiles), Earp Bros (Tiles). Fittings & Fixtures: Harvey Norman – Commercial, Sydney Commercial Kitchens , Winnings Appliances, Britex, Caroma, Enware, Clark, Britex, Abey, Bobrick

Photography: Brett Boardman