Orterra: Creating Meaningful Outdoor Spaces at LORDS

At Orterra, we believe outdoor spaces are more than just places to play – they’re vital environments for learning, connection and personal growth. That’s why we were thrilled when Lutheran Ormeau Rivers District School (LORDS) approached us to help reimagine their grounds to support greater outdoor learning and play.

A masterplan rooted in community insight

Our journey with LORDS began with the development of an open space masterplan and play strategy. The goal was clear: increase the play value of the school’s outdoor areas and support more outdoor teaching opportunities. But to get there, we started with listening.

We ran a series of surveys and workshops with students, staff and parents, gathering ideas and feedback about how the school grounds were used and what they could become. The level of engagement was inspiring! Year 12 students thought about what the Preps might enjoy and younger students imagined how their spaces could grow with them into high school. It was a powerful example of how LORDS has nurtured a school culture of empathy, vision and shared responsibility.

Supporting the youngest learners: LORDS Little Wonders

In parallel, we were asked to create a concept design for the kindergarten, LORDS Little Wonders, focused on increasing the play value of their playground and creating a welcoming, age-specific entrance.

The design draws from the core LORDS values: growth through play, nature, laughter and character-building experiences, and blends them with current research in outdoor learning. Our aim was to support children’s social and emotional development, spark creativity and curiosity and encourage gross and fine motor development, all through engaging natural play.

With input from the centre staff, the resulting concept includes a variety of spaces children can use in multiple ways – encouraging open-ended interaction, exploration and joy in learning outdoors.

From stillness to imagination: The Bush Chapel and Loose Parts Play

One of the standout features we helped develop was the Bush Chapel; a quiet, reflective outdoor space where students and staff can gather for worship, devotions, or simply to be still. Set gently into the natural topography and surrounded by native bushland, this space invites peace, connection and presence. As the surrounding native plants mature, it will continue to evolve with the seasons, offering shade, colour and habitat for local wildlife.

In contrast, the loose parts play area we designed is a hub of energy and imagination. With garden beds, logs, rocks, boulders and an open-access shipping container full of materials, students are encouraged to build, explore and invent. Loose parts play has proven benefits for creativity, collaboration and problem-solving. Skills that transfer well into the classroom and beyond.

Outdoor learning done differently

Our collaboration with LORDS reflects what’s possible when schools commit to thoughtful outdoor design. The spaces are not only functional and fun – they’re shaped by the values of the community, grounded in educational research and built to grow with the students who use them.

If your school is ready to reimagine its outdoor spaces, we’d love to help you create environments that support learning, wellbeing and connection for every age and stage.

Get in touch with Orterra today and let’s design something special together. 

0422 243 815
[email protected]
orterra.com.au