Vistara Primary School Lismore

The project brief was to provide a building that was flexible in use and reflected the vibrant character of the school.

The site allowed a near-perfect building orientation, facing the beautiful countryside to the north and sheltered from the southerly winds by the hill behind. Large windows allow plentiful natural light and cross-ventilation, while window awnings and deep roof overhangs provide solar shading and shelter from rain.

The multipurpose space opens onto an undercover performance and gathering space, with stone landscape walls providing amphitheatre seating. This undercover space also doubles as a play space on rainy days.

The building is designed to be energy efficient and environmentally conscious. It is naturally ventilated, heavily insulated and has photovoltaic solar collection panels on the roof providing energy in excess of school requirements.

Space Studio undertook all aspects of the project management, architectural and interior design, documentation and specification, co-ordination of all consultants and building contract administration.

Cost planning: QS Plus
Planning: Bede Cooney
Structural: Westera Partners
Part J Partners Energy
Civil: Ardill Payne
Builder: Greg Clark Building
Photography: David Taylor