THE SUSTAINABLE SCHOOL

Mowbray Public School in the Sydney suburb of Lane Cove North, initiated a rebuilding project in December 2014. Standardisation dominated most school buildings until the late 70s. The buildings were usually either simple structures with a single large roof or complex and intimidating campuses.

Unlike then, today’s educators understand the positive impact of changing the environment of the school itself when considering how to improve the quality of education. The physical environment of the school contributes to promoting positive choices and activities, and effective learning.

The NSW Government architects responsible for rebuilding Mowbray Public School in the Sydney suburb of Lane Cove North, were very specific regarding the type of materials they wanted to use. They wanted to ensure the materials chosen were environmentally responsible and that they would meet the needs of the children and the school. To this need, Futurewood was selected to provide exterior cladding, decking and screening materials for portions of the school rebuild.

Customised to the specific requirements of the School, Futurewood’s facade cladding was chosen over traditional timber exteriors due to its durability, low maintenance and cost-efficiency.

Product durability and warranty were discussed with the school’s architects, as well as colour options and finishes, before the final choice of materials in a custom-made Sandalwood colour with a coarse sanded finish were chosen. The chosen decking, weatherproof cladding and decorative cladding/screening from Futurewood offered a timber-like finish that achieves a natural look with greater sustainability that met the architects brief.

School buildings and furniture are subjected to the dynamic energy of growing children. They need to pass the tests of safety, security and durability while ensuring an environment that fosters positive growth and learning. The cladding, decking and screening products used on the Mowbray Public School rebuild assisted in achieving a relaxed style, understated and modern yet children-friendly, using sustainable materials that met community expectations.

For more information about Futurewood’s full range of composite products, including architectural facade cladding and fencing, call 1300 484 308 or email info@futurewood.com.au