Currajong State School Administration

This new Administration and Student Services Centre building for a Townsville state school – with a proud history in the local community –  comprises:

• general administration for the campus;

• a new secure entry point at the front of the school;

• supervision of the main entry points and sick room; and

• dual service points at reception for students and visitors.

The school’s original building – now transformed into the C Block classrooms – was constructed in 1954.

This new design adopts a similar massing style and roof angles, and reimagines them to deliver a more modern building and shape that ties into the overall campus scheme.

The building is linked to neighbouring buildings by interconnecting graded walkways, and is elevated on a raised earth plinth, taking into account the fact that the school is in a flood prone area. 

Constructed using materials and finishes that are durable, low maintenance and hard-wearing, the new building is well equipped to handle high levels of wear-and-tear encountered within any school environment, and the tropical climate.

In addition, the design responds to the local conditions through its choice of materials, thermal insulation, extensive sun shading and natural ventilation measures, all of which help to optimise passive thermal performance and achieve year-round comfort for students and staff, across Townsville’s wet and dry seasons.

The new Administration building features an asymmetrical skillion roof with clerestory windows, which deliver indirect natural light deep into the internal spine, offering welcome connections to the outside environment and sky.

This design tactic also provides an unexpected sense of internal space and volume to these important staff areas, enhancing the quality of the working environment for teachers and administration staff who use and occupy the building.