Y2 Architecture

At the recent LEA Unleash Conference, on Whadjuk Noongar Country, Matt Dwyer and Sarah Jasenia from Y2 Architecture presented “Unlearning Empire: How Timor-Leste can break from colonial schooling and build its own educational future.”
 
Our presentation shared the story of Colégio Marista Lautem, an educational project in remote Timor-Leste developed in collaboration with Marist Schools Australia. Framed through the lens of decolonising practice, the talk explored how architecture can support educational change when it is grounded in local culture, climate, community knowledge and long-term partnership.
 
We reflected on the realities of working in a context shaped by colonial legacies, rigid curriculum structures, limited resources and complex translation across language, culture and construction practice. We discussed how the school’s design - including open-air learning environments, verandas, village-scale planning, natural ventilation, locally resonant materials and spaces that support hands-on learning, exploration of local craft traditions and project-based learning - aims to create a more culturally responsive and future-focused model of education.
 
The presentation also highlighted the importance of ongoing pedagogical support, including Y2’s involvement in a Pedagogical Development Team working with local educators to shape teaching practices and learning environments that respond to Timorese culture, community, and ways of learning.

Together, the project demonstrates how architecture can act as a catalyst for dignity, belonging, educational opportunity and long-term community involvement and growth.

We’ve loved having our work experience student join us from Bendigo this week 📐

She’s been getting hands-on experience in both architecture and interior design, working closely with our team on a design brief.

Here’s a moment with our interior designer Chantel, collaborating on material boards and bringing ideas to life ✨

Always inspiring to see the next generation step into the studio!