Christon Smith
VIC Architect Registration No. 16069
Benalla P–12 College STEAM Centre and Library
Benalla P–12 College is a project about renewal, identity and the role architecture can play in giving a regional school confidence in its future. Across two connected stages, the campus has been transformed from a collection of ageing and temporary facilities into a coherent, contemporary and outward-looking learning environment for more than 620 students.
The first stage delivered a new STEAM Centre and Library, establishing a strong academic focus and setting the benchmark for the broader campus renewal.
The building engages the wider community through architecture that showcases learning and sparks students’ curiosity. It reinforces the central plaza as the heart of the school while maximising opportunities for outdoor learning.
Plentiful daylight, good indoor air quality and a natural material palette underpin a healthy, contemporary learning environment. The planning promotes equitable access to resources for students of diverse abilities, supporting academic engagement, individual development and the skills needed to thrive beyond school.
Awards
- 2026 Winner, Large School Project – Value Above $15 Million, Victorian School Design Awards
The building supports engaged learning in STEAM-based settings with learning and teaching areas for Sciences, Technologies, Textiles, Arts and Media. Maker spaces and an integrated Library, together with outdoor learning areas, complete the suite of learning zones.
This visionary project is the result of close collaboration between DesignInc and key stakeholders. The school community commitment to achieving a supportive and inclusive environment will undoubtedly influence the future of education at Benalla P-12 College for generations.
Jane Sayers
Principal, DesignInc Melbourne
Stage 2B builds on that foundation through a new Administration, Food Technology and Canteen building, a flexible dining and staff centre, new landscape works, a central courtyard, outdoor learning areas and a productive kitchen garden.
People
Projects
Benalla P–12 College Stage 2B: Administration, Food Technology + Canteen building
New Schools 2025 – Murrum Primary School
New Schools 2024 – Brinbeal Secondary College – Supported Inclusion School
New Schools 2024 – Walcom Ngarrwa Secondary College
Adelaide Botanic High School
Caulfield Grammar School Senior School Teaching and Learning Building
Insight
Workplace gender equality at DesignInc Sydney
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Insight
DesignInc Adelaide’s Directors Double
Directors Richard Stafford and Ben Zoontjens are pleased to welcome Sonya Montgomerie and Ben Luppino as new directors for DesignInc Adelaide. The promotions double Adelaide’s directors from two to four. The four Adelaide directors look forward to working together as the Adelaide studio and the broader industry continue to evolve and adapt to new challenges.
Insight
DesignInc Melbourne featured on the new Central Melbourne Axis Walking Tour app
The Australian Institute of Australia – Victorian Chapter has launched a Central Melbourne Axis Walking Tour on both app stores and online.
People
Jane Sayers
As a highly regarded design architect, Jane works across a range of projects, especially education, health and other community-focused developments. During her two-decade career, she has collaborated on many exceptional…
Education
The best learning environments inspire and engage students and educators. They are adaptable and sustainable, with intrinsic resilience to take them into the future.