Portarlington Primary School

Traditional Custodians:

Wathaurung

Typology:

Education

Location:

Portarlington, Victoria, Australia

Project value:

$6m

Builder:

EJ. Lyons & Sons P/L

Brief:

The new Portarlington Primary School, positioned along the town’s main civic axis, preserves its historic 1882 building while remaining operational. The design includes seven learning areas, a Global Learning space, and a da Vinci Studio with an adjoining kitchen.

A suspended boardwalk from Newcombe Street leads to the entrance, featuring nautical-inspired elements like a curved canopy with blue glass portholes. The school connects to a Community Garden through extensive decks, supporting a Stephanie Alexander Kitchen/Garden program. The design offers a vibrant, low-maintenance environment that complements its seaside location and community context.

Collaborators:

Gillon Consulting Group

Simpson Kotzman Pty Ltd

CDA Design Group

Boswell Shaw Giazi Marshall Pty Ltd

Wilde and Woollard