21/08/2026
🔥 90 place childcare centre in VIC approved!
Our latest childcare project in Highett, Victoria is a 90-place childcare centre with underground parking and one of the more challenging sites we’ve had the opportunity to work with. The site area is approximately 1,400m².
The design embraces a philosophy of working with the inherent conditions of the site rather than imposing upon them, transforming topography, environmental constraints and the needs of the community into opportunities for architectural expression.
Through carefully orchestrated levels, protected outdoor environments, natural light and considered materiality, the architecture seeks to create a nurturing setting where functionality, context and the experience of children converge.
The site presented a significant 2–3m fall towards the rear, requiring the building to be designed as a carefully integrated split-level development across three levels, while addressing drainage, access, acoustics, neighbouring properties and the surrounding streetscape.
The site was also affected by Aboriginal heritage requirements, requiring an extensive assessment and consultation process.
With around 40 objections, the project faced ongoing concerns relating to traffic, acoustics, vegetation, arborist matters, bulk and scale. The application went through a lengthy Council assessment process, including two Council hearings, and took approximately one year to reach approval.
Every major concern raised throughout the assessment process was addressed through the design and supporting documentation.
After a long and challenging journey, the project was approved without the need for a VCAT appeal.
