St Catherine’s College
University of Western Australia, Perth
Wilson Architects designed new student accommodation at St Catherine’s College as a series of small neighbourhoods, fostering connection, learning, and cultural understanding. Purpose-built for the College’s Dandjoo Darbalung program — meaning “mixing together” in Nyungar — the project supports equitable access to education for Indigenous students.
The design promotes inclusive, community-driven living by blending with the existing campus and countering isolation often experienced in traditional college settings. Early research highlighted challenges Indigenous students face when transitioning to university life. In response, the living environment was reimagined to encourage daily connection, shared experiences, and a sense of belonging.
Close consultation with Indigenous and non-Indigenous stakeholders informed the creation of culturally sensitive landscapes, including outdoor spaces that reflect elements of earth, fire, wind and sky — reinforcing cultural identity and community.
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Community + Belonging:
Small neighbourhood-style accommodation clusters encourage everyday interaction and shared experiences to combat isolation and improve student wellbeing.
Cultural Sensitivity:
Deep consultation with Indigenous and non-Indigenous stakeholders guided the creation of culturally significant outdoor spaces — including landscapes that connect to earth, fire, wind, and sky.
Equity of Access:
The building integrates seamlessly into the wider campus to dissolve perceived boundaries and promote inclusivity across the entire College community.
Empowerment + Support:
Spaces are designed to align with Dandjoo Darbalung’s pillars of academic support, personal empowerment, and future employment pathways.
Outcome:
A student-centred, culturally enriched environment that reshapes the university experience for Indigenous students — enhancing retention, wellbeing, and academic achievement through intentional and inclusive design.
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2024 Architecture AU Award for Social Impact - Commendation
Client
St Catherine’s College
Completed
2019
Key Personnel
John Harrison, Ilka Salisbury, Hamilton Wilson, Nick Lorenz, Michael Herse, Paul Newman
Traditional Custodians of the Land
Wajuk Nation
Contractor
Besix Watpac
Photography
Douglas Black
