Darlington Public School, a small public school in Chippendale, has been named the World Building of the Year at the 2024 World Architecture Festival in Singapore, surpassing more than 220 global projects, including skyscrapers, museums, and transport hubs.
A Small School with a Big Win
Darlington Public School, designed by Sydney-based architectural firm FJC Studio, took home the top honour at the festival, which recognises the best in global architecture. The modest project was celebrated for its innovative design, cultural significance, and focus on community engagement, outshining larger and more prominent buildings.
The school’s new design replaces a 1970s building that was no longer suitable for modern learning. It now combines contemporary architectural features with outdoor spaces, including a basketball court and a community garden where students can grow native plants. The school accommodates more than 500 students across preschool, kindergarten, and primary levels.
Connection to Culture and Community
A key focus of the design was the strong connection to Indigenous culture. The architects incorporated Aboriginal art into various parts of the building, including the entrance, classrooms, and hall. Murals that were originally painted on the old school walls were carefully recreated in the new structure’s cladding. The garden also plays an educational role, teaching students about Indigenous foods and traditions.
The architectural firm noted that community collaboration was at the heart of the project. FJC Studio highlighted that the design process was shaped by the input of the school’s staff, families, and students, ensuring the new space met their needs while preserving the spirit of the original campus.
Modern Design Meets Sustainability
One of the standout features of the new school is its distinctive “sawtooth” roof, which is angled to optimise natural light and reduce energy use. Open-air terraces, surrounded by curved metal screens, allow sunlight to filter through while providing privacy for students.
The emphasis on sustainability and thoughtful use of outdoor areas ensures the school remains a welcoming and functional space for generations to come.
The project was completed in two stages to allow classes to continue without interruption, ensuring minimal disruption for students and teachers.
Global Recognition
The 2024 World Architecture Festival, now in its 17th year, brought together projects from around the globe across categories including housing, health, and transportation. Darlington Public School was selected as the overall winner from the category finalists by a panel of 175 judges. Other notable projects in contention included a solar power plant in Turkey and a national observatory in Cyprus.
FJC Studio’s success marks their second win at the festival, having first earned the title in 2013. The firm’s representatives said the win reflects the importance of smaller-scale projects that focus on community enrichment and cultural identity.
The architects emphasised that while the award is an exciting achievement, the true benefit lies with the students and community. The new campus offers a modern, culturally significant, and enriching environment for children to learn and grow.
Published 18-Dec-2024