Sustainability brief drives AJC Architects’ design of Newington College's Rural Campus in Eungai Creek

Regenerative design principles are at the heart of the newly-opened Newington College's new Mid North Coast campus, which recently welcomed its first students.

Designed by AJC Architects, the Eungai Creek campus is located on a 200-hectare rural property on Dunghutti Country, and will serve as the home of the College’s visionary social service immersion and outdoor education programs. With a total GFA of 1,600 square metres, the new buildings include ten 8-person student cabins, a health centre, a reception, and a dining hall. 

Guided by the College’s inspired brief based on reciprocity and sustainability, AJC has integrated sustainable and regenerative design principles into the project, viewing it as an opportunity to do less harm while also contributing positively to climate, community and ecosystems.

The use of carbon-positive materials such as compressed straw panels is one example of AJC’s design thinking. Made in Bendigo from a natural and renewable resource – agricultural waste – these panels amass 27kg of sequestered carbon dioxide per square metre. As a result, each cabin testifies to six tonnes of carbon dioxide that has been pulled from the atmosphere.

The design also eliminates carbon-intensive materials such as concrete, ceramic tiles and aluminium, instead, positioning the lightweight buildings on footing systems that mimic tree roots and can be removed without a trace. A structural system of steel and hardwood balances upfront embodied carbon, life cycle analysis and local supply chain. Double glazed windows are made locally in South Kempsey. By prioritising thermal bridging, air tightness and indoor air quality, the heavily insulated cabins significantly exceed industry-standard thermal performance ratings. 

The buildings sit comfortably in the landscape, arranged loosely in an arc following the site contours. The site planning carefully creates connections to key site features; examples include gathering under an ancient fig, working around existing structures, and capturing views to Mount Yarrahapinni, a coastal mountain of significance to the Dunghutti, Ngambaa and Gumbaynggirr people.

The design offers simple, approachable buildings that feel at home in their setting. Referencing Australia’s rural vernacular, the building forms evoke the agricultural shed, verandah and lean-to, with humble materials, crisp geometry and uncluttered detailing. Gabled rooflines shelter outdoor decks and invite connection to the landscape. All water consumed on site is captured on site.

All the design features support the campus’ educational aim, which is to provide a transformational experience for students at a critical developmental stage. The campus will host groups of 64 Year 9 students, living sustainably for 8-10 weeks.

“This project offers a significant contribution towards designing a carbon positive future,” says Michael Jones, AJC studio lead. “Doing more with less material, using biogenic materials and reducing our upfront carbon impact are crucial in responding to the climate crisis. AJC’s design embodies the College’s aims around sustainability, belonging and taking responsibility. We are delighted to be part of this special project and we commend Newington on their vision, generosity and authenticity.”

Images: Supplied