Two innovative school projects – one in New South Wales and one in Victoria – have been recognised in the 2026 Australian Interior Design Awards shortlist, underscoring the growing role of design in shaping contemporary learning environments.
Now in its 23rd year, the awards have unveiled a shortlist of 226 projects across residential, commercial and public sectors. Widely regarded as Australia’s leading benchmark for interior design excellence, the program celebrates innovation, creativity and the evolving needs of the built environment. It is also the only interior design awards program in Australia that is entirely peer judged.
Among the education projects recognised is Green Square Public School and Community Spaces in Sydney’s inner south. Designed by BVN, the four-storey primary school responds to the demands of one of Australia’s fastest-growing and most densely populated urban areas, combining education facilities with community-accessible spaces such as sports courts and halls.
The project departs from standard school models, integrating shared community facilities, including sports courts and halls accessible outside school hours. Its design reflects a shift toward flexible, collaborative learning, supporting co-teaching, student clustering and adaptable classroom configurations.
The interior planning plays a central role in this approach. A network of classrooms, breakout areas and outdoor learning environments can be reconfigured over time, ensuring the school remains responsive to changing educational practices. Despite the complexity of managing large student numbers and security requirements, the spaces are intentionally welcoming and inclusive.
The interiors balance durability and inclusivity with a sense of playfulness, without feeling overtly childish. A muted material palette allows students and their work to take visual precedence, while artworks, landscape elements and flexible furnishings support learning, play and social interaction. Careful planning of sightlines between classrooms, verandas and amenities also prioritises student wellbeing and supervision.
Foundation principal Ms Nicole Molloy said the project represents a significant shift in how school environments can support learning.
“Green Square Public School is far more than a place of instruction; it is a living expression of progressive educational design,” she said. “BVN’s work demonstrates intellectual depth, contextual sensitivity and a sophisticated understanding of how architecture can shape a thriving educational culture. The building does not simply house innovation, it enables it.”
In Victoria, Banyan Fields Primary School has also been recognised for its transformation of a disused gymnasium into a contemporary STEAM Hub. Designed by Kart Projects, the initiative demonstrates how existing school infrastructure can be reimagined to meet modern learning needs.
The project was shaped through close consultation with the school community, identifying gaps in specialised learning spaces and staff collaboration areas. Rather than undertaking major structural changes, the design retains the building’s original open volume, introducing adaptable zones that support a wide range of teaching and learning activities.
Sustainability was a key priority. Upgrades including a new roof, improved windows and enhanced insulation have significantly increased the building’s energy efficiency, reducing long-term operational costs while improving comfort for students and staff.
The result is a flexible, resource-efficient environment that supports creativity, innovation and interdisciplinary learning – key priorities in contemporary education.
Winners of the 2026 Australian Interior Design Awards will be announced at a gala presentation in Sydney on 12 June.
