Richmond Primary School

Delivered within a live school environment on a highly constrained inner-city site, the project involved the demolition of the existing two-storey Block B and the construction of a new three-storey learning facility. Designed to maximise the available footprint while preserving valuable outdoor play and recreation areas, the new building provides flexible, future-focused learning spaces that support the evolving needs of students and educators.

A key feature of the development is the integration of Level 1 link bridges, seamlessly connecting the new facility with the existing school buildings and creating a cohesive campus environment. Throughout the design phase, extensive collaboration between the project team, school leadership, teachers, and the school council ensured the facility was tailored to support Richmond Primary School’s educational vision and curriculum requirements.

Careful planning and stakeholder engagement enabled the school to remain fully operational throughout construction, with safety and minimal disruption prioritised at every stage. The completed project delivers a vibrant, modern learning environment that enhances the student experience while supporting the school’s long-term growth and success.

A standout feature of the Richmond Primary School project is Biik – Country, a significant artwork commissioned by the Victorian School Building Authority and created by First Nations artist Tommy Day III (Kerrupmara, Wemba Wemba, Yorta Yorta). Displayed prominently on the exterior of the new building, the artwork acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people and their enduring connection to Country. Through the depiction of Bunjil, the Creator Spirit, and the Birrarung (Yarra River), the piece celebrates the cultural significance of the land, waterways and stories that have connected people to this place for thousands of years. The artwork contributes to a strong sense of identity and place for the school community, while providing a lasting visual acknowledgement of the Traditional Custodians of the land on which the school stands.