New South Wales
The performance space and STEM classroom on Wangal country at Burwood Girls High School makes a bold, colourful statement through a detailed yet simple form. Designed to inspire students in their performances and scientific pursuits, while providing a high-quality teaching and learning space – a landmark creative hub.
Easily legible yet dramatic, the project rises to a sharp peak. The weatherboard-clad first-floor form is perforated by two expansive glazed sections, allowing natural light to beam in while providing ample views and ventilation.
Shading is provided by thirteen striking timber shutters, painted on both sides in a bright rainbow palette. The chosen colours reflect the diverse backgrounds of the students and their positive and inclusive attitudes to life.
While the external form remained simple, the section is playful. A substantial void adds natural light and ventilation to the ground floor, acting as a thermal chimney for STEM projects.
Burwood Girls High School promotes opportunities for students to excel in STEM initiatives and Performing Arts. The school was built in 1929 and hence has limited facilities for students to initiate and innovate in STEM and Performing Arts. The idea of renovating an old toilet block and building an extension to provide an additional facility is important to the school community and was discussed at P&C meeting in 2017. The concept of the building reflects the nature of the school – innovative, inspirational, and ideal to meet the learning needs of students from 2022 onwards. Our dream has become a reality!
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.
