Goodna State School’s Prep building catches judges’ attention at 2021 Dulux Colour awards

The architect behind the design was asked to create a building that would reflect the school’s neighbourhood.

Goodna State School Prep/Yr 1 Building by arkLAB Architecture was named a finalist in the 2021 Dulux Colour Awards. Images: Christopher Frederick Jones

The newest extension to an Ipswich school has wowed judges with its use of colour.

Goodna State School’s Prep and Year 1 building has landed the school in the running to win the 2021 Dulux Colour Award and $5000, after it was named a Commercial and Multi Residential Exterior category finalist.

The two-storey building was completed in 2019 as part of a government initiative to move Prep students from the old building on Stuart Street to the school’s main campus.

Goodna State School Prep/Yr 1 Building by arkLAB Architecture was named a finalist in the 2021 Dulux Colour Awards. Images: Christopher Frederick Jones

School Principal Nathan Eiby said the Macey building housed students across the youngest two year levels as well as specialist rooms for inclusive education.

“Each classroom provides a fantastic and stimulating learning environment,” Mr Eiby said.

“(Rooms are) reflective of modern IT features, abundant in discreet storage, boast practical floor coverings and provide access to wet areas and cooking facilities ideal for early years learning.”

Of 437 entries across Australia and New Zealand, design judges narrowed down to 105 finalists.

Of 437 entries across Australia and New Zealand, design judges narrowed down to 105 finalists. Images: Christopher Frederick Jones

“Internal colours promote happiness and calmness, with a purple influence (to reflect) the school uniform and the abundance of jacaranda trees in the Goodna area,” Mr Eiby said.

“External colours and materials are subtle and timeless but promote a strength and modern edge.”

Behind the building’s design, architecture firm arkLAB Architecture said the school asked for the build to reflect the nearby homes.

“They sought to restore the streetscape through the addition of the new building,” the firm said in a statement.

Behind the building’s design, architecture firm arkLAB Architecture said the school asked for the build to reflect the nearby homes. Images: Christopher Frederick Jones

“The design draws inspiration from the many Queenslander houses in the area, integrating domestic elements of this style with the institutional scale, and softening the transition from home to school life.

“Sun blades take on a pastel hue – a softness that breaks the stark whites and charcoals used elsewhere for depth and directional changes – with the five shades selected representative of colours prevalent throughout the local neighbourhood.”

Winners will be announced in Melbourne at a Gala event, for which a time and date has not yet been set.

Read more news by Ebony Graveur.