This project included internal refurbishment of an existing single-stream Primary School on a tight site in North Parramatta.

Existing K to 6 classrooms were accommodated within an almost entirely open plan space (an early iteration of collaborative learning planning) which had issues with acoustics. The school also had a very dark, deep floor plate, a result of multiple additions over the years.   

Teaching and Learning spaces had to be re-imagined to better accommodate the school’s progressive pedagogical approach and to facilitate current Teaching and Learning practices.

Central light-filled makerspace with a pop-up roof allows bespoke collaborative learning spaces with a variety of breakout and direct teaching rooms revolve around it. Approach to retain entire exterior shell provided the project cost-effectiveness and more sustainable method than knock-down rebuild.

Bright and light interior selections rejuvenated the spaces and deliberately placed internal walls, doors and windows lend themselves to maintaining the sense of openness.

Project received a Commendation at Learning Environments Australasia 2023 Awards.

Client: Catholic Schools, Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle

Location: North Parramatta, NSW

Size: 600sqm + 600sqm

Value: $2M

Contractor: Reitsma Constructions / Midson Construction

Status: Completed

Alleanza Team: Cassie Stronach, Anna Linna

Collaborators: Birzulis, Kuttner Collins

Photographer:  Jarrod Bryant

This project refurbished a dated school building into flexible learning spaces that accommodate the educational needs of the school while considering the acoustic needs of the classrooms. The design includes access to natural daylight and accommodates a bubble-year group moving through the school. The new flexible learning spaces are bright, comfortable and connected, providing better lines of sight between year groups to create a community with the space. The use of colour, texture and light makes it easily adaptable for future changes while maintaining the building shell, achieving excellent value for money.