DESIGN TEAM

Xeriscapes, CKDS, Bizulis Associates, Electrical Projects Australia, Lindsey Perry Access, Strategy Hunter

LOCATION

Taree, NSW

CLIENT

Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle

St Josephs Early Education Centre + Learning Hub will include a new 70 child early education centre and outdoor learning space adjacent to an existing school and school library.

The design elements embedded in both areas call on the multi-layered history of the settlement of Taree & the importance of Catholicism to the school.

The Early Education Centre design proposes predominantly natural and local play elements and endemic planting. Dry creek beds and subtle topographic manipulation add to this wild, nature based approach to play. Swirling feature shell banding within the pavement of both spaces reflects the significance of the local Manning and Dawson river systems to Taree and its people throughout history.

The learning hub seeks to refurbish an existing space for reflection & prayer for the students and utilises the existing wall for a proposed mural with religious motif, whilst also incorporating the existing mature Cupaniopsis anarcardiodes found on site. Tiered sandstone seating encloses the space and reflects an arched church window.