Who We Are We are a specialist design and planning practice based in Melbourne, Victoria, focused on delivering contemporary, compliant, and commercially viable designs for early learning and childcare centres. With a strong track record in both design and permitting for childcare facilities across Melbourne and regional Victoria, we offer a fully integrated service from feasibility through to permit issue and construction hand-over. Our Services for Childcare Operators We offer a tailored, end-to-end design and planning service designed specifically for childcare centre operators. Our approach ensures every project is not only visually compelling but also fully compliant and operationally efficient. Site & Feasibility Assessment We carefully evaluate your potential site(s) to determine zoning suitability, local planning controls, building yield (licensed child numbers), car parking, servicing, and overall financial viability. This early-stage analysis helps you make informed decisions and minimise risk. (We also provide a complimentary initial site assessment.) Design Our designs create contemporary, child-centred learning environments that prioritise wellbeing, functionality, and connection to nature. We focus on strong indoor–outdoor integration, abundant natural light, and high-quality finishes, while reflecting your brand identity and educational philosophy. For example, one of our early-learning centres for approximately 98 children incorporated natural ventilation, daylight optimisation, and a striking “jewel-box” form — combining visual appeal with wellness and operational efficiency. Compliance & Regulatory Assurance We recognise that the childcare sector is subject to specific regulatory demands—zoning, child yield, service approval, building regulation, safety, car-parking, traffic and accessibility. We ensure: The proposed design aligns with local planning scheme provisions (zoning, overlays, setbacks, height, parking). Outdoor play spaces meet both regulatory minimums and best-practice design for children’s learning and wellbeing. Building design meets the relevant Australian Standards, the Building Code of Australia, and the specific requirements for early learning facilities (including acoustic, safety, access, fire egress). We prepare and coordinate documentation necessary for planning/building permits, so childcare operators avoid costly redesign or delays. We engage with consultants (structural, mechanical, traffic, acoustic) as required and coordinate the process so your team can remain focused on operations and branding. Why Partner with AuArchitecture? Sector-Specialist Experience: We’ve specifically designed and obtained planning/permit approval for early learning and childcare centres—meaning fewer surprises, quicker process, and informed design decisions. Design + Planning in One: With both design capability and town-planning expertise (via our in-house registered planner), we streamline workflows and reduce hand-off risk. Commercially Aligned: We design with your business model in mind—child yields, staffing efficiencies, build cost control and operational flexibility. Contemporary, High-Value Design: Our designs are modern, visually appealing, child-friendly and built to last—supporting occupancy, parent choice and strong long-term asset value. End-to-End Service: From initial feasibility through design, permitting and documentation, we provide a complete package—giving you confidence in delivery timelines and cost. Conclusion For childcare operators seeking to establish a new centre or upgrade an existing facility, AuArchitecture offers a trusted, specialist partner. We bring together creative, contemporary design, solid planning and regulatory knowledge, and a commercial focus to ensure your project not only meets compliance and approval but stands out in the market and delivers operational success. We welcome the opportunity to provide a free high-level site assessment and discuss how we can help you realise your childcare centre vision—on time, on budget and on brief.