Darlington Public School / fjcstudioSave this picture! Brett Boardman / Anthony FretwellSchoolsSydney, AustraliaArchitects: fjcstudioYearCompletion year of this architecture project Year: 2023 PhotographsPhotographs:Brett Boardman / Anthony FretwellManufacturersBrands with products used in this architecture project Manufacturers: EQUITONE, Brickworks Lead Architect: Richard Francis-Jones More SpecsLess SpecsSave this picture!Text description provided by the architects. Darlington Public School is a community school located in a thriving inner-city suburb of Sydney, with strong connections to Aboriginal people. The school serves as a model for innovative educational spaces, emphasizing the integration of First Nations culture and sustainability. Designed in collaboration with educational consultants, New Learning Environments, the school features adaptable learning hubs that foster collaboration and inclusivity. These spaces support active, quiet, and outdoor learning, creating a safe and inviting atmosphere that maximizes natural light and ventilation. The design incorporates perforated screens that reflect the local casuarina trees, further connecting the school to its natural surroundings.Save this picture!Central to the school's design is the concept of Connecting with the Country, developed through extensive consultation with First Nations Elders, artists, and the Aboriginal Art Group. This collaboration resulted in the inclusion of Indigenous plants, art, and storytelling throughout the campus. QR codes link students and visitors to the stories of the land and plants, transforming the school into a living classroom where culture and environment are intertwined. This thoughtful integration of cultural values makes the school a powerful example of place-based learning.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!The outdoor learning terraces and garden play areas promote openness and a connection to nature, echoing traditional learning environments found in cultural practices. Murals from the original school, painted by Blak Douglas (Adam Hill), were recreated in the new facility, ensuring a continuity of culture. Additionally, totems designed by Uncle Neil (Thorne) are incorporated into the design, linking the classrooms to cultural narratives and enhancing the educational experience.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!Darlington Public School's commitment to sustainability is evident through initiatives like rainwater harvesting, natural ventilation, and energy-efficient systems. The design also features sawtooth roofs angled to capture sunlight, high-level glazing for indirect daylight, and protective curved screens for filtered light. The school's emphasis on blending educational, cultural, and environmental values highlights its role as a community hub that celebrates both its local landscape and its deep connections to Aboriginal heritage.Save this picture!Project gallerySee allShow lessProject locationAddress:Sydney, AustraliaLocation to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.About this officePublished on January 20, 2025Cite: "Darlington Public School / fjcstudio" 20 Jan 2025. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1025844/darlington-public-school-fjcstudio&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream