Education, Completed 2019
Awabakal Country, Lambton NSW


An intimate 24-space childcare centre was designed for and built in a former suburban printing factory. The existing footprint of the factory is maintained and a central courtyard created by replacing sections of the existing roof with translucent sheeting and operable louvres. Combined with roll-up shutters to vegetated side setbacks and the sky, an all-weather outdoor play space is formed that keeps children active while being connected to light, air and changes in climate.

The internal alterations to the existing factory building allow a domestically scaled building to emerge that is practical while encouraging children’s creativity. Materials used like timber and plywood are left exposed, creating a warm and textural material palette that is inviting to students and their families.


Client: The Big Tree House
Engineering: Skelton Consulting Engineers
Landscape: MUD Landscape Design

Awards: Commendation for Educational Architecture 2021 AIA Newcastle Architecture Awards

Similar Projects: Alumni House, return to all projects




















Education, Completed 2019
Awabakal Country, Lambton NSW


An intimate 24-space childcare centre was designed for and built in a former suburban printing factory. The existing footprint of the factory is maintained and a central courtyard created by replacing sections of the existing roof with translucent sheeting and operable louvres. Combined with roll-up shutters to vegetated side setbacks and the sky, an all-weather outdoor play space is formed that keeps children active while being connected to light, air and changes in climate.

The internal alterations to the existing factory building allow a domestically scaled building to emerge that is practical while encouraging children’s creativity. Materials used like timber and plywood are left exposed, creating a warm and textural material palette that is inviting to students and their families.



Client: The Big Tree House Childcare
Engineering: Skelton Consulting Engineers
Landscape: MUD Landscape Design

Awards: Commendation for Educational Architecture 2021 AIA Newcastle Architecture Awards

Similar Projects: Alumni House, return to all projects