Images from our Instagram. What's happening on our projects and an insight into the process of Architecture through our eyes.

Designed as a welcoming and connected learning environment, the St Teresa Library brings together spaces for collaboration, quiet study and discovery. Natural light, the warmth, texture and sensory qualities of timber, flexible learning settings and strong connections to the surrounding campus create a place where students can learn, connect and thrive. The library showcases mass-timber construction, combining Australian-grown glue-laminated timber (GLT) and cross-laminated timber (CLT) to create a high-performance, sustainable structure. The exposed timber structure supports biophilic design principles, enhancing occupant wellbeing through a natural material palette that brings warmth, texture and character to the learning environment. Prefabricated timber elements enabled rapid assembly, reduced on-site works and enhanced safety, significantly minimising noise, dust and disruption within the active school environment. At the heart of the design is a commitment to accessibility, wellbeing and student-centred learning, supporting diverse learning styles while fostering curiosity, creativity and engagement. We are proud to see this vibrant new campus hub enjoyed by the @avila_college community. Client: @melbournecatholicschools Builder: @newpol_construction Consultants: @ttwengineers , BRT Consulting Engineers, Scientific Fire Services, @urbaninitiatives.au , @wildeandwoollard , @philipchun.bc Photography: @peterclarkephoto
Law Architects were delighted to receive two Learning Environments Australasia Design (LEAD) commendations for the outdoor learning areas of Monash Community Family Cooperative designed in collaboration with @oculusstudios Landscape Architecture + Urban Design, and the Damascus College Xavier Flood Senior Learning Centre. “Monash Community Family Co-operative is a compelling example of how landscape architecture can steer the design of educational environments; shaping childhood experience through nature, movement, and exploration.” “The design integrates rock elements, graded pathways, ecological planting, and retained canopy to create a risk positive, exploratory environment that encourages physical challenge, imaginative play, and independence.” The Xavier Floor Senior Learning Centre is a “substantial and transformative addition to the campus, [and] has evidenced a major shift in the senior student culture and agency…” “Across numerous levels, the balance of proximity and separation has been duly considered, across formal and informal learning environments and study zones. The placement of teaching workspace amongst learning settings, provides opportunities for a more authentic and adult like community of learning, where educators and students work together as one.”
After an inspiring time at the LEA 2026 Unleash conference in Perth, some of the Law team returned energised to Melbourne this week, following three engaging days together with our peers, educators, leadership and governing teams, policy makers, researchers and facility planners, we collectively explored the evolving landscape of learning environment spaces. Perth/ Boorloo is a city located in the Country of the Whadjuk Nyoongar people and is recognised for its innovation and connection to Country. A great mix of keynote speakers, targeted narrative thread talks and site visits to many varied local buildings and sites, showcasing exemplar progressive learning environments where sustainability, technology and culture come together in Western Australia. Law Architects were delighted to receive two LEAD commendations for the Damascus College Xavier Flood Senior Learning Centre and the playgrounds of Monash Community Family Cooperative designed in collaboration with @oculusstudios Landscape Architecture + Urban Design. Following the conference we are now reflecting on: • Regeneration over and above sustaining • Context is key for every project, site, community • Learning on Country and in language to support two-way learning • Being hopeful and acting with purpose beyond passive optimism At Law Architects, we believe in great design to support education and learning spaces where the possibilities can truly run wild! Photographer (Image 2): @diannasnape Photographer (Image 3): @leoshowell #LEA #Unleash2026 #LEAConference #leadawards #schooldesign
The St Teresa Library at @avila_college is officially complete and occupied. After sharing progress throughout the build, we’re excited to showcase the completed project. Designed to support Avila College’s vision for future-focused learning, the St Teresa Library provides a highly connected and accessible environment for students and staff. Positioned at the heart of the campus, its porous and open design activates the surrounding landscape and buildings, encouraging movement, interaction and student-centred engagement. As a vibrant campus hub, the St Teresa Library enhances wellbeing, social connection and equitable access to resources and information. Designed with pedagogy at its core, the facility supports digital inclusion, student agency and a balance of independent and collaborative learning experiences, fostering curiosity, inquiry and student-centred engagement. Client: @melbournecatholicschools Builder: @newpol_construction Consultants: @ttwengineers, BRT Consulting Engineers, Scientific Fire Services, @urbaninitiatives.au, @wildeandwoollard, @philipchun.bc Photography: @peterclarkephoto
New spaces for learning and growth are now shaping everyday life at St Brigid’s Catholic Primary School in Healesville. Replacing ageing facilities, these new learning habitats are designed for Prep and Grade 1 students. The building is carefully grounded into its steep site with brick blade walls and positioned to frame views out to the native surrounds. A new timber walkway runs along the southern facade, providing a seamless connection to existing buildings and play areas, and strengthening the transition between indoor and outdoor learning. Internally, acoustic sliding doors enable varied teaching modes, with a warm material palette complemented by hardwood timber joinery, pinboard & wood wool ceilings; creating an inviting, student-centred environment. We’re proud to have partnered with St Brigid’s and MACS and thank the builders and consultant team for their contributions. Project Team: Client: @melbournecatholicschools Builder: @bowdencorp Structural & Civil Engineer: Helix Consultants Services Engineer: BRT Consulting Engineers Building Surveyor: @grimbosbuildingsurveyors
At the end of 2025 Law Architects were delighted to annonce three new promotions; Chris Cogdon to Principal, Rachel Carew to Associate and Alex Kemp to Associate. These promotions acknowledge their contributions and leadership across the office and the broader design community. Chris joined Law in 2014 and has been shaping many of our projects ever since. He enjoys interrogating project briefs, testing ideas through feasibility studies, and crafting strategic masterplans that respond thoughtfully to each site. With a calm, methodical approach, Chris brings consultants and contractors together to deliver well-resolved outcomes. Since joining Law in 2019, Rachel has become a key part of our design and documentation team. She’s contributed to a range of projects, pairing a thoughtful design eye with comprehensive ArchiCAD expertise. Known for her collaborative spirit and attention to detail, Rachel helps keep projects moving smoothly with clear coordination and beautifully resolved documentation Alex joined Law in 2021, quickly becoming an energetic and highly-valued team member & project leader. Alex balances working as a project architect with her role as Design Studio Leader at RMIT University. She is passionate about student-centred learning environments, and approaches each project with enthusiasm, thoughtful communication, and a collaborative mindset. Image from left to right: Chris Cogdon, Rachel Carew and Alex Kemp.
Today we celebrate Jenni Webster’s valuable contributions to humanitarian design during her time in India in late 2025. After more than 30 years as an educational architect, half of them with Law Architects, Jenni embraced the opportunity to apply her experience in a new context by volunteering with The Anganwadi Project (TAP) in India. TAP works to create sustainable, low-cost education, health and community spaces for children and families in disadvantaged communities. Jenni believes deeply in the power of education to transform lives and shape stronger communities and future leaders. Her time with TAP and Parijat Academy reaffirmed her belief that thoughtful design can inspire, uplift and bring hope to everyday life. #internationalwomensday
The start of a new school year holds added significance for many of us at Law Architects, as several team members watch their children begin school or step into a new academic year. It’s a timely reminder of how deeply the environments around them influence their learning journey. As the school year begins, we’re proud to play a role in designing environments that foster learning now and help build foundations for the future of today’s students, and for those who will follow in their footsteps. This year we opened more than four brand new buildings and schools including: - Wandong Primary School - new Learning Building and new Specialist Building (@vicschoolbuilding) - Yirrama Primary School - brand new school (@vicschoolbuilding) - St Marianne Cope - brand new school (@melbournecatholicschools) - Kinders on School Sites - multiple brand new kinders across Victoria (@vicschoolbuilding) We thank our collaborators for a rewarding commencement to the year, and look foward to forthcoming milestones.
The new Welcome Building marks a proud new entry to Avila College; enhancing street presence, reflecting their Catholic identity, and delivering contemporary spaces for staff and visitors, alongside an innovative, all-electric Food Technology facility. Project Team: Client: @avila_college and @melbournecatholicschools Builder: @newpol_construction Structural & Civil Engineer: @fcdesign_engineers Mechanical, Elecytical, Hydraulic and Fire Services: BRT Consulting Engineers Landscape Architects: @urbaninitiatives.au Building Surveyor: Design Guide Building Surveyors Town Planner: @klmspatial Land Surveyor: Madigan Surveying Geotechnical: Melbourne Geotechnics Photographer: @peterclarkephoto
We are back at work in the Old Dairy, welcoming in the New Year with a brand new door! We love spilling out onto our quiet laneway for lunch or casual meetings whilst the warm breeze carries through the workspace and our furry friends are kept safe inside.
A huge thank you to all our collaborators in 2025! Our office will close at 12pm on Friday 19 December 2025 and re-open on Monday 12 January 2026. Wishing everyone a relaxing and joyful break and a very happy new year!
The new Xavier Flood Senior Learning Centre at Damascus College sits within the rich landscape of Wadawurrung Country. Framed by mature eucalypts and vast skies, the building feels closely connected to its surroundings, creating a sense of welcome and calm. Inspired by its surrounding sky-bound treetops, the variety of learning settings are dappled in warm, earthy tones and softer greens and blues. Along with the visual connections between indoor and outdoor, the resulting spaces encourage focus and wellbeing. Learners feel grounded and attuned to the rhythms of the landscape, empowering student collaboration and confidence. Project Team: Client: @damascuscollege Builder: @awnicholsonptyltd Structural & Civil Engineer: @creostructuresau Services Engineer: BRT Consulting Quantity Surveyor: PlanCost Building Surveyor: @primebuildingsurveyors Photographer: @diannasnape
Law Architects is proud to congratulate Hansi and James who recently became registered architects with the ARBV. We’d additionally like to warmly welcome two new students, Zoe and Michael, to our team. Hansi has become a valued member of our studio since joining Law in 2019. Her experience stretches from masterplanning to project delivery, bringing a thoughtful and collaborative approach to every aspect of our projects. Hansi values considerate, people-centred design that promotes placemaking and adaptability. James joined the team at Law in 2024, following formative experiences across residential, educational and interior projects. His approach is grounded in careful listening, considered detailing, and an appreciation for the broader context in which projects sit. James is a proven all-rounder who brings clarity, thoroughness, and an ability to navigate project complexities. Zoe has recently finished her first year of a Masters of Architecture at RMIT, following undergraduate studies at the University of Newcastle. She understands architecture through a deep interest in people, landscape and how direct experience and tactile engagement will inform spatial understanding. Michael has just completed his first year of Masters of Architecture degree at Monash University. He pursues architecture with a passion for encompassing people and place and explores a sense of playfulness through his graphic representation. Congratulations to Hansi and James on an extremely well-deserved milestone, and welcome Zoe and Michael to the Law team! Image from left to right: Hansi Hettikanda, James Embry, Zoe Devlin, Michael Augustes
Our studio is incredibly proud to celebrate Nicole’s appointment as Chair-Elect for the Learning Environments Australasia (LEA) – Victoria Chapter Committee. Nicole has been a valued member of our team for many years, dedicating her talent and passion to shaping thoughtful, inclusive and future-focused learning environments across Victoria. This new role is a testament to her commitment to educational design and the impact she has made within our practice and the broader sector. Over the next two years, Nicole will work closely with the chapter committee and the newly-appointed Chair, Emily Flint. Together, they will help lead LEA’s advocacy for innovative, high-quality learning environments that support students, educators, and communities. We’re excited to support Nicole as she steps into this leadership position and continues to champion the importance of well-designed learning spaces. Learn more about Learning Environments Australasia: @le_australasia & @le_vic_chapter A well-deserved achievement. Congratulations, Nicole! Photographer: @danielbordinphotos
Huge congratulations to Sandy on her appointment as a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects! As Director of Law Architects, Sandy has nurtured a deeply collaborative culture, mentoring many young architects along the way. Her strong connection to place is felt in everything she does, both personally and professionally. With a passion for creating healthy, inspiring learning environments and a long-standing commitment to bringing designers and educators together, Sandy continues to create space for meaningful change. So well-deserved Sandy! @institute_architects_aus #AIAFellow #ArchitectureLeadership #DesignForLearning
Through an exciting joint initiative between @sandringhamcollege and @baysidecitycouncil , Law Architects proudly partnered in creating a vibrant new Community Sports Precinct and High-Performance Centre. This multi-purpose precinct integrates education, sport, and community use seamlessly into the existing school grounds to benefit both students and the wider community. These new facilities include: - 1 indoor court complimented with a fitness centre, performing arts facilities, a canteen, change rooms and storage - 2 indoor courts     - 9 outdoor courts - complimented by a kiosk, change rooms, offices, meeting rooms, storage, change rooms, umpires’ rooms, first aid and administrative facilities - 98 additional parking spaces - considered landscaping reflecting the coastal character of the site   Serving both the school and the wider community, this precinct not only elevates the daily experience for students and locals but also strengthens Melbourne’s southeast as a hub for high-quality sport and recreation. Project Team: Client: @vicschoolbuilding and @baysidecitycouncil Builder: @mccorkell_constructions Landscape Architect: @urbaninitiatives.au Structural Engineer: @creostructuresau Services Engineer: Cortese Consultants Project Managers: @debtechprojectmanagers Acoustic Engineer: @acousticlogic Country: Bunurong Country Council: City of Bayside Photographer: @gallantlee
Law are proud to celebrate the journey of relocation and renewal for the Lutheran Church Community in Box Hill. Delivering the masterplan rejuvenated the property in two parts: first, a careful refurbishment of the heritage church, then the creation of a new two-level building. Today, the result is a precinct with extensive hospitality and meeting areas, along with flexible worship and function spaces that support ministry, community and staff. We look forward to seeing the community begin to inhabit and fill the spaces with purpose and to make them their own. This is the joy of architecture: when a long vision comes to life and a community breathes life into the spaces they helped create. Project Team: Builder: @newpol_construction Project Team: @creostructuresau, @acorconsultants, @michaeltaylorarchitects, Michael Smith & Associates, @philipchun.bc, Ricardo Energy Environment & Planning Client: St Paul’s Lutheran Congregation, Box Hill Country: Wurundjeri Country Council: City of Whitehorse Photographer (images 1-5): @tatjanaplitt Photographer (images 6-7): @drew_echberg_photographer
As promised, we’re keeping you updated on the progress of the St Teresa Library & Research Centre at @avila_college. It’s exciting to see some of the finished elements of the Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glue Laminated Timber (GLT) coming to life. These beautiful timber features not only form a key part of the building’s structure, but also offer a more sustainable alternative to traditional materials. Combined with the project’s biophilic design approach, they help create a warm, natural environment that will be a lasting asset for the Avila College community. Client: @melbournecatholicschools Builder: @newpol_construction Structural and Civil Engineers: @ttwengineers Service Engineers & ESD: BRT Consulting Engineers Fire Engineer: Scientific Fire Services Landscape Architect: @urbaninitiatives.au Quantity Surveyor: @wildeandwoollard Building Surveyor: @philipchun.bc Council: Monash City Council Country: Wurundjeri
Connection to landscape was a key driver in the curation of interiors in the Aikenhead Centre at Catholic Ladies’ College (CLC). The spaces intrinsically reflect the flora and fauna native to Eltham, situated on Wurundjeri Country. Through natural colour and material palettes, thoughtfully framed outlooks and considered blurring of indoor and outdoor boundaries, the design prioritises the wellbeing of staff and students. Project Team : Client: @clceltham Project Manager: @montoprojects Builder: Melbcon Pty Ltd Structural and Civil Engineers: @creostructuresau Services Engineers and ESD: BRT Consulting Engineers Landscape Architects: @urbaninitiatives.au Quantity Surveyor: @wildeandwoollard Building Surveyor: @philipchun.bc Acoustic Engineer: Acoustic Control Town Planning: Natalie Gray Council: @nillumbikcouncilvic Photographer: @diannasnape
Through our collaboration with Catholic Ladies’ College (CLC) Eltham, we are proud to share the completion of the Aikenhead Centre, a contemporary learning environment that honours the legacy of Mary Aikenhead and her spirit of ingenuity. This three-storey addition extends an existing building, with a light-filled gallery linking new and old. Inside are flexible Visual Communication studios and Year 9 learning areas, designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and leadership. Nestled amongst the gum tree canopy, the Aikenhead Centre embraces the College’s most valuable asset, its landscape; creating a place where learning is deeply connected to both community and Country. Client: @clceltham Project Manager: @montoprojects Builder: Melbcon Pty Ltd Structural and Civil Engineers: @creostructuresau Services Engineers and ESD: BRT Consulting Engineers Landscape Architects: @urbaninitiatives.au Quantity Surveyor: @wildeandwoollard Building Surveyor: @philipchun.bc Acoustic Engineer: Acoustic Control Town Planning: Natalie Gray Council: @nillumbikcouncilvic Photographer: @diannasnape