Sydney Grammar School

Edgecliff Preparatory is one of three Sydney Grammar School campuses, nestled in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. The campus places strong emphasis on outdoor play and connection to the environment as part of everyday school life.

When the neighbouring property began major construction works, much of the mature tree canopy along the shared boundary was lost. The playground, once shaded, green and full of energy, was now exposed to harsh sunlight. For students, it meant shorter, hotter playtimes and fewer opportunities to be outdoors.

The school needed a design that would restore comfort, privacy and usability without overpowering the heritage setting. The structure had to let light reach classrooms, align with future master planning and be built safely within tight holiday windows. Beneath the surface, the site posed further challenges: uncontrolled fill and a suspended slab over a basement resulting in limited access for equipment.

Greenline worked closely with Sydney Grammar School and AJC Architects to create a custom sawtooth canopy, engineered specifically for the school’s constraints. Its north-facing design allows sunlight to filter through while reducing roof mass and visual impact.

Construction was carefully staged with footings installed during one term break and the canopy over the Christmas term break - keeping students safe and the campus operational.

The finished space integrates feature lighting, perforated mesh screens and adjustable basketball systems, creating a bright, adaptable environment for sport and play. The structure feels purposeful and light, blending naturally with its surroundings while future-proofing the playground for years to come.

The new canopy has transformed everyday life at Edgecliff Prep. Students can now play and learn outdoors year-round, while teachers note cooler classrooms and reduced glare. The space doubles as an assembly and recreation area, adding flexibility to a compact campus.

Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The school commended Greenline’s safe, collaborative approach and the design’s balance of function and finesse. The result is a space that restores shade, comfort and character - reconnecting the playground to the heart of school life.