Xavier College
Xavier College’s new learning environments bring architecture, culture and Country into meaningful dialogue. Central to this project is Connections in Country, a design by Waanyi and Kalkadoon artist and designer Keisha Leon, realised through Decor Systems’ Contours of Country acoustic range in a warm Plantation Oak finish.
Inspired by the natural lines that shape Country, contours, songlines, rocky faces and the flow of the land, the design reflects stories of the past, present and future. These lines shift and move across the surface, echoing the evolving relationships, knowledge and connections we hold with Country.
At Xavier College, the artwork becomes part of the building’s language. Embedded within ceilings and walls, the flowing forms are not decorative, but a visual expression of Country woven into the everyday experience of students and staff.
The acoustic panels support calm, focused learning while quietly holding space for story. In doing so, they help create a culturally safe environment where culture, knowledge and respect for Country are visible and acknowledged.
Beyond performance, achieving a Group 1 fire rating and an NRC of 0.80, the Contours of Country range supports sustainable outcomes through GECA, FSC® and Declare certification, and contributes to Green Star targets.
Importantly, the range also supports First Nations artists, with 15% of every sale returned directly to the artist, embedding cultural value into every project.
To explore the ideas behind Connections in Country, we spoke with Keisha Leon about the inspiration, meaning and impact of the design within an educational setting.
What sparked the concept for the design featured in the Contours of Country range?
The idea was inspired by the natural lines that shape Country—contours that hold stories of the past, present and future. These forms connect to songlines, rocky faces and the natural flow of the land. The design reflects how these lines shift over time, mirroring how our connections, stories and knowledge continue to evolve.
How did it feel to see your work come to life in this setting?
It’s always beautiful seeing my work at a large scale, especially noticing what elements people connect with most. What excites me is understanding how people perceive the design—the story they see in it, how they interact with the space, and the knowledge shared through the architecture.
How can art and design contribute to culturally safe, inspiring spaces for young people?
Art and design have the power to tell and honour stories. They hold space for connection to Country—before colonisation and continuing today. In a school environment, this connection shapes how young people learn, understand the world and imagine the future.
Connections in Country at Xavier College demonstrates how art, design and architecture can come together to create learning environments that are both high-performing and deeply meaningful.
Through Keisha Leon’s design, Country becomes present within the built environment, supporting focus, fostering connection and honouring stories that have existed long before contemporary education systems. The result is a space that not only functions, but teaches, reminding students and staff that learning is strongest when it is grounded in respect, culture and Country.
Similar Projects
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