A public school building in Australia has been named the “World’s Best Building” at a ceremony held during the World Architecture Festival in Singapore. The building, belonging to Darlington Public School and designed by fjcstudio, was recognized for its “sensitive and inclusive approach to early childhood learning” and was recognized for fostering an educational environment that respects and values cultural diversity. This is the second consecutive year that a public school has received the prestigious title of “World’s Best Building,” highlighting the importance of school architecture in building a more inclusive future.
Located in a suburb of Sydney, Darlington Public School was built on the site of a former 1970s school, which remained in operation throughout construction. The World’s Best Building was designed to minimise impact on students’ daily lives and community life, reflecting the project’s commitment to local collaboration and cost-effectiveness. The school’s architecture embodies a strong respect for Indigenous culture, expressed through elements that highlight the school’s connection to Aboriginal history and traditions.
The project includes a collection of Aboriginal artworks, which have been preserved and integrated into the space, as well as a community garden with native plants, offering a hands-on and immersive lesson in Indigenous cuisine and culture. This cultural integration stands out as one of the pillars of the project, reinforcing Darlington Public School as a place of learning that celebrates diversity and promotes an inclusive environment for all students.
The World's Best Building impresses with several details
The school's structure also impresses with its innovative and efficient design. The building is designed to make the most of natural light, with zigzag roofs and high-level windows that allow for pleasant, indirect lighting.
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The main entrance offers a view of the inner courtyard, while curved metal screens protect the outdoor learning areas, creating a safe and inspiring environment for children. Sustainable elements have been incorporated to ensure thermal comfort and energy efficiency, prioritizing passive cooling and natural heating practices.
A poetic work
Paul Finch, director of the World Architecture Festival, praised the project, saying it “explored and expanded the client’s formal brief, including the views and experiences of the local community and diverse users”. He described Darlington Public School as “a poetic work, where topography and landscape, both internal and external, intertwine harmoniously, pointing to a brighter and better future for all”.
The “Best Building in the World” award is a recognition of the school’s commitment to inclusive education and cultural integration, characteristics that go beyond aesthetics and highlight the social responsibility of architecture.
This award reflects the importance of creating spaces that respect and celebrate local culture, providing a welcoming and innovative educational environment for future generations. Darlington Public School, as the “Best Building in the World”, becomes a global example of how architecture can transform lives and contribute to building a more inclusive and culturally rich society.