Schools Infrastructure NSW has redeveloped Darlington Public School in Chippendale with the intention to establish a stronger identity and sense of place while providing world-class learning facilities for the growing enrolments in the area.

Louvreclad was engaged to design, engineer, supply and deliver the double height Polaris Series® curvilinear perforated aluminium screens that are the distinguishing feature of the new school.

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One of the key challenges with bespoke curved perforated aluminium facades is to design and engineer custom curved aluminium SHS support framing that is integrated discreetly to ensure it is not visible from the outside.

In this instance, the curved screens spanned across two floors with a cantilever at the parapet, which meant careful consideration needed to be given to thermal expansion and slab deflection at each level.

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As much of this screening followed the walkways, it was important to maintain enough light and transparency to allow clear views out into the courtyards and grounds.

Louvreclad’s Polaris Series® was selected with a standard round hole staggered configuration perforation pattern with just the right open area to provide privacy while still allowing enough light.

The voluminous curved gold perforated aluminium screens articulate a sense of flow that guides the students through various gardens, play areas and gathering spaces.

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"The curvilinear perforated screen, referencing the casuarina trees once lining Blackwattle Creek, offers solar protection while expressing the project’s connection to Country," said fjcstudio Design Director Richard Francis-Jones.

The Darlington Public School redevelopment won the prestigious 2024 World Architecture Festival Building of the Year accolade.

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Project details

Project: Darlington Public School Redevelopment

Location: Chippendale, NSW

Client: Schools Infrastructure NSW

Partners: AW Edwards, fjcstudio

Solution: Polaris Series® Perforated Metal Screens

Architecture & Design Team

Louvreclad

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