2026 Learning Environments Australasia Design Award

Recently, Woodleigh’s Regenerative Futures Studio was recognised with a Learning Environments Australasia Design Award in both the Innovative Education Initiative and New Building (Small) categories.

Presented by Learning Environments Australasia, the awards celebrate projects that bring educational vision to life through considered planning, design and delivery. Project Director John McIldowie said the recognition reflects the shared vision and contribution of design collaborator Joost Bakker, Woodleigh’s David Baker and Scott Grimshaw, along with the broader project team.

In its citation, the jury described the Futures Studio as “a global benchmark in educational design,” noting the way it seamlessly brings together a bold, student-led pedagogy and a pioneering regenerative ecosystem. Developed through a rigorous 12-month consultative process, the project translates Woodleigh’s visionary Year 10 curriculum into a physical “third teacher” — one that nurtures both student agency and environmental stewardship.

The citation also highlighted the Studio’s "spatial DNA" — a modular grid and mobile systems that allow the environment to evolve alongside changing educational needs, from quiet reflection to public exhibition. By making the entire design available under an open-source license, the project extends beyond a singular architectural achievement to offer a scalable blueprint for a regenerative future.

You can explore the full jury citation and discover the other inspiring award-winning projects here.