The expansion of Margaret Hendry School in Taylor, ACT, enhances the school’s outdoor spaces, creating a rich and engaging landscape for learning, play, and connection with nature.

The design prioritizes natural elements, incorporating local endemic plant species that support biodiversity and reflect the region’s landscape. Inspired by Indigenous stories, these plantings create a meaningful connection to Country while offering shade, texture, and seasonal interest throughout the school grounds.

Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) principles shape the site’s approach to sustainability. Decorative swales guide rainwater to collection points for reuse, while runoff from buildings is harvested for irrigation. These strategies, combined with resilient native plantings, reduce water consumption and create a self-sustaining environment.

The expanded outdoor spaces encourage hands-on learning, exploration, and interaction, reinforcing the school’s commitment to education beyond the classroom while fostering a strong connection between students and the natural world.