Rockhampton school redefines learning spaces with award-winning design
Posted on June 2nd, 2025
Kingsley College – Primary Stage 01 in Rockhampton has taken top honours at the 2025 Australian Institute of Architects Central Queensland Regional Awards, winning both the prestigious J.W. Wilson Building of the Year and the People’s Choice Award.
Designed by local firm Design+Architecture, the project is an inspiring example of how thoughtful and responsive architecture can elevate educational outcomes.
Created to support student wellbeing and engagement, the flexible indoor-outdoor learning spaces at Kingsley College have already led to a measurable improvement in student behaviour.
The project was praised by the jury for its “sensitive and thoughtful response to the environmental, social, and economic conditions of its rural Queensland setting.”
It also received a commendation in the Educational Architecture category and was shortlisted for the Social Impact Prize.
“Kingsley College is a testament to the power of purposeful design in shaping the next generation in a collaborative manner,” said Colin Strydom, Director of Design+Architecture.
“We are honoured to have been partnering with the school for the last 5 years to create spaces that not only nurtures learning but also builds community pride and connection.”
Capricorn Enterprise CEO Mary Carroll commended the firm’s continued excellence across the region.
“Colin and the Design+Architecture team have consistently delivered outstanding projects that enhance the liveability and vibrancy of Central Queensland,” Mary said.
“From educational spaces to major tourism assets, their designs reflect both innovation and deep local understanding.”
Design+Architecture’s significant regional projects (among others) include the Mount Archer National Park – Nurim Skywalk, Figtree Galleries in Yeppoon, Cocobrew Express buildings, and the Mount Morgan Streetscape Revitalisation.
Also recognised at this year’s awards was the Keppel Bay Sailing Club, which received a commendation in the Commercial Architecture category.
Designed by Arkhefield, the new foreshore facility in Yeppoon delivers upgraded sailing amenities alongside a state-of-the-art conference and hospitality venue.
The project includes boat storage, training and club rooms, administrative offices, and a race observation room—positioning it as a key tourism and sporting asset for the Capricorn Coast.
All awarded and shortlisted projects from the Central Queensland region are now in contention for the Queensland Architecture Awards, to be announced in June 2025.
