Darlinghurst Public School

The conversion of the 1970s concept of learning facilities into a modern, flexible learning environment.

Project Details

Architects
Midson Group

Address
Womerah Ave, Potts Point NSW 2011

Submitter
Cecilia Wilson, Building the Education Revolution NSW Integrated Program Office, NSW Department of Education and Communities

Cost
$2,579,540.25

Photographer
Michael Nicholson, Terry Brooke & Rod Matterson

Project Overview

Darlinghurst Public School is of major heritage significance as one of the first large schools built as a result of the Public Instruction Act 1880. It was also designed to be an impressive expression of the status and value of public education. The building (1884) is constructed in the Victorian Romanesque Revival style and includes sandstone foundations, polychrome brickwork with stone detail and a tiled gabled roof with brick chimneys.

The major achievement of the project was the conversion of the1970s concept of learning facilities that featured false ceilings, partitioned walls, internal level changes, poor levels of light, acoustics and access issues into modern, light-filled learning environments that provide flexibility, connectivity and accessibility for current and future learning needs. These large, flexible learning spaces can be readily reconfigured throughout the school day and beyond to accommodate the identified needs of whole class groups, smaller focus groups and individuals. The strength of the new designs increases transparency between home and school through the integration of ICT into the learning process and which is readily accessible in each space. In addition there are a number of integrated passive and active ESD initiatives assimilated within the existing, heritage listed structure. 

The final outcome of the project exceeded all community expectation. “The restoration is an art form. At a school level, a narrative continues, the story of majestic form complemented by the multiplicity of function where all stakeholders are proud, and continue to share the wonderment and awe.”    Rachel Privett, School Principal