project
Henbury Special Needs School Landscape
| Client | NTG Department of Logistics and Infrastructure |
| Location | Darwin, NT |
| Completion Year | 2015 |
| Sector | Landscape Architecture |
| Education | |
| Government |
| Project Manager |
Fiona Eddleston
Director, Landscape Architect
The landscape design for Henbury Special Needs School in Tiwi supports diverse physical, sensory, and social needs, fostering independence and wellbeing. Outdoor spaces extend classrooms, offering structured and exploratory experiences with shade, texture, sound, and movement. Universal access ensures safe mobility, while zones for climbing, sensory gardens, reflection, and social interaction promote development and inclusion. Natural materials and planting create calm and connection to Country, delivering a nurturing, engaging, and inclusive environment.
Key objectives
Support diverse student needs
Enable outdoor learning and play
Ensure universal accessibility
Foster engagement and calm
Connect to Country through nature
Project Story
The landscape design for Henbury Special Needs School in Tiwi is purposefully crafted to support the diverse physical, sensory, and social needs of its students, fostering independence, confidence, and wellbeing.
Outdoor learning and play spaces are designed as extensions of the classroom, providing a rich variety of experiences that cater to both structured activities and free exploration. Shade, texture, sound, and movement are layered throughout the environment to stimulate engagement while offering moments of calm and retreat. The design prioritises universal access, allowing all students to move freely and safely across the site, whether using mobility aids or engaging in active play. Zones for climbing, sensory gardens, quiet reflection, and social gathering are seamlessly integrated to promote cognitive development, emotional regulation, and peer connection. Natural materials and planting bring a sense of calm and connection to Country, while the layout ensures clear orientation and visibility for carers and staff.
The result is a landscape that celebrates ability, enhances daily experience, and builds a strong foundation for learning and inclusion.
