The Farrall Centre

The design concept is driven by a direct expression of the building function – internally and externally – and the unification of existing buildings and campus topography. The Farrall Centre expresses the Quaker ethos of The Friends’ School – simplicity in design, with an intrinsic quality of place befitting the central role it plays in the life and development of students and the school community.

Spaces are designed for maximum versatility without compromising functionality – exhibition, teaching and recording areas are arranged around the central auditorium, seating up to 800 people in various modes. Lower seating tiers retract and sliding panels behind the stage open to admit daylight and view over the school grounds and city beyond – transforming the auditorium into a function room catering for 220 seated guests.

Acoustics are crystal clear in all parts of the auditorium and have been widely praised in the press and elsewhere – the TSO Chamber Orchestra has recorded a number of performances in The Farrall Centre for broadcast on ABC FM.