Editor’s Choice Award for sustainable architecture goes to Barker College
Barker College celebrated a significant win at the recent Sustainability Awards 2024. The Maths and Student Hub received the prestigious Editor’s Choice and was Highly Commended in the Education + Research category.
The Sustainability Awards are Australia’s longest-running and most prestigious awards program, dedicated to acknowledging and celebrating excellence in sustainable design and architecture. Read below for the details from the awards submission.
“The Barker College Maths Hub embodies a holistic approach to sustainability, merging biophilic design principles with passive environmental strategies and on-site energy generation to create a learning environment deeply connected to nature.
This innovative building is crafted from sustainably-sourced mass timber, which sequesters 780 tonnes of CO2, offsetting 18 years of its operational emissions. The design prioritises a climate-conscious approach by strategically using natural elements like solar, wind, and air to reduce environmental impact.
The Maths Hub’s 23 classrooms feature exposed timber structures and organic finishes that foster a connection to nature, enhancing student well-being. Large louvres and openable façade elements maximise natural light and cross ventilation, ensuring a healthy, breathable space that supports academic and social development. This design also prepares the building for future challenges, such as pandemics, by promoting fresh air circulation to reduce the spread of viruses.
By integrating biophilic design with sustainable practices, the Barker College Maths Hub not only creates a conducive learning environment but also exemplifies a future-focused approach to education that aligns with the natural world, promoting resilience and well-being.”
This recognition is the latest in a string of achievements for this benchmark project, having won the Milo Dunphy Award for Sustainable Architecture at the NSW AIA awards 2024 and the Excellence in Timber Design Award at the Australian Timber Design Awards 2023 among other accolades.
Congratulations to all the entrants this year and our thanks to the Jury members for their recognition.
