Bayside City Council collaborated with Zen Architects to create a pioneering children’s centre within a park setting, with a clear focus on prioritising the interests of both children and the environment. The design of Fern Street Children’s Centre was guided by the desire to create a playful, nature-connected space that fosters wonder and imagination in young minds. The material palette was deliberately limited to local, sustainable, and healthy materials, allowing children to clearly see and feel their surroundings. Radial timbers, sourced locally, were used extensively both inside and outside the building, reinforcing this connection to nature.

To preserve the site’s natural hydrology and protect existing trees, the building was constructed using screw piles to support a timber-framed structure, reducing the need for concrete and steel. This approach not only minimized the environmental impact but also contributed to the building’s aesthetic harmony with its natural surroundings. Throughout the project, these principles guided decision-making, particularly when navigating the complexities of regulations and bureaucracy that often cloud the creative process.

Nestled within the native botanical context of Tricks Reserve, the Fern Street Children’s Centre successfully mediates between civic and educational purposes, resulting in an architectural response that is both sensitive to its natural environment and deeply connected to the surrounding community. This approach challenges traditional notions of kindergartens and community centres, breaking down formalities and setting a new standard for future civic projects in environmentally sensitive areas. The centre stands as a testament to how thoughtful design can harmoniously integrate built environments with nature, providing a nurturing space for children while respecting and preserving the ecosystem.

Photography by Tom Ross