the Leenowwenne people of the Big River nation
Tasmania
Brighton High School’s interior design embodies the transition of Brighton from a rural-urban community into a thriving hub for education and creativity. Located on the land of the Leenowwenne people of the Big River Nation, the school reflects a deep engagement with local culture and environment. Designed for 600 students, the campus honors the Jordan River/kutalayna as a symbol of transition and growth, shaping spaces through a narrative of interconnectedness and belonging.
Flexible interiors support diverse learning needs with open collaboration zones, group spaces, and quiet study pods. Natural light, raked ceilings, and a colour palette inspired by the Big River and Oyster Bay nations—blending deep greens, blues, and warm terracotta tones—create vibrant, reflective environments. Locally sourced materials and recycled elements underscore sustainability while showcasing Tasmania’s heritage.
Integrating community, culture, and ecology, the interiors foster creativity, pride, and connection, creating a lasting legacy of education and shared identity.
Collaborating with JAWS Architects on this project has been an exceptional experience from start to finish. The JAWS Team, played a crucial role in transforming an educational brief and pedagogy into thoughtfully designed spaces that encourage collaboration and creativity. They designed open, adaptable, and flexible environments that encourage group work, communication, and a variety of teaching methods, all of which aim to help increase student engagement and focus. Their design of the outdoor spaces further promotes social interaction and teamwork, providing an ideal environment for collaborative learning.
Scott Verdouw, Project Director
Hanz Lee, Project Architect
Neal Mackintosh, Design Architect
Chris Egan, Project Architect
Michael Erwin, Designer
Luke Claringbold, Designer
Virginie Hufty, Designer
Tisha Lee, Design Architect
Dev Mistry, Designer
Gandy & Roberts, Civil Consultant
Gandy & Roberts, Structural Engineer
COVA, Services Consultant
Playstreet, Landscape Consultant
Lee Tyers Building Surveyors, Building Surveyor
Noise Vibration Consulting (NVC), Acoustic Consultant
WT Partnership, Cost Consultant
Equality Building, Access Consultant
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
