COMPANY
PROJECT LOCATION
COUNTRY
AREA
COST
BUILDING TYPE
CONSTRUCTION
PERIOD OF INVOLVEMENT
NBRS ARCHITECTURE
80 Wollongong Road Arncliffe, NSW 2205
Gadigal/Bidjigal people of the Eora Nation
1900sqm
$8 Million
Educational Facility
Type A; CFC cladding, glazing, tensile mesh, steel frame, lightweight internal partitions
2021-2023
The St Mary & St Mina Coptic Orthodox College Refurbishment is a multi-storey redevelopment that transforms the existing senior campus into a contemporary, flexible learning environment. The project was almost a full new build, which challenged how many learning spaces could be accommodated within a tightly constrained site. It enhances the college’s facilities through new classrooms, a library, performing arts areas, staff administration, and student amenities.
The design responds sensitively to its urban and heritage context, introducing a new upper volume that is visually recessed from the existing façade. Careful spatial planning and massing allowed multiple programs to be integrated efficiently without overwhelming the site or neighbouring properties. The architecture emphasises light, adaptability, and material longevity, using locally sourced finishes to create visual continuity. A central atrium light well draws daylight deep into the plan, fostering openness and connection between spaces.
I was involved from construction through to handover, working across documentation, RFI coordination, and on-site resolution, as well as contributing to the design of a Coptic-inspired artwork installation in the courtyard. This experience strengthened my technical understanding of how design intent is realised under constraint, reinforcing precision, communication, and collaboration throughout delivery.
PHOTOS: ALEXANDER MAYES PHOTOGRAPHY