Natureworks has built a magnificent artificial tree inside a school building, bringing a relaxing sense of nature into the learning environment. Backed by beautiful rainforest mural panels, the tree appears to grow out of the wall at William Stimson Public School in Wetherill Park, NSW.
Connecting nature to learning
Designing and building the fig tree replica
In Australia, fig trees are mostly found in rainforest areas of Queensland and New South Wales. The Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla) is one such species, growing 15-35 metres high, with a similar spread. Naturally, a full-size fig tree like that would be way too large for inside a school hall!
Rather than creating a complete fig tree replica for this project, we designed it as a half-tree that could be mounted against the wall. The tree branches and leaves extend into the room at a height that does not interfere with the space below.
A small patch of artificial grass at the base of the tree helps to integrate the tree into the space and is perfect for children to sit under.
Photo gallery: Artificial fig tree at William Stimson Public School
Creating the rainforest mural
To provide a naturalistic backdrop for the artificial fig tree, Natureworks designed and installed a beautiful rainforest-themed mural. Our artists painted the mural scenes onto aluminium composite wall panels, which were then adhered to the existing brick wall. We also attached some artificial ficus leaves to the mural panels at the back of the tree to create the illusion of more depth.
The mural features a realistic natural scene with trees, water and native animals. To enhance educational value, the animals are labelled with their common name. The animals include a cassowary with chicks, spotted quoll, pademelon, koala, tree kangaroo, green tree snake, rainbow lorikeets, black cockatoos and green tree frog.
Photo gallery: Rainforest mural at William Stimson Public School
As you can see from the photos, the combined effect of the fig tree and mural creates a natural ambience inside the school building near the entry to the school library. Bringing nature into learning spaces like this has been shown to have positive effects, boosting receptiveness to learning.
“Research shows that engagement with nature can help enhance attention and memory in school children, which are critical for learning.”
(Vella-Brodrick & Gilowska, 2022)
Project details
| Client | William Stimson Public School |
| Project | Fig tree and mural |
| Audience | Primary school children, teachers and families |
| Location | 36-54 Lily St, Wetherill Park NSW 2164 (see map) |
| Date | 2023 |
| Related products | Artificial Trees & Plants |
| Related catalogues | Artificial Trees, Mammals, Birds, Tree of Life |
| Similar projects | Anglican College Storybook Library, Artificial Fig Tree in Waiting Room |
Project case study
Enhance learning spaces with realistic artificial trees
Natureworks can design and make a custom tree for you or adapt an existing design (like this half fig tree) to suit your space. We can also paint custom murals and provide sculptures of animals and birds to enhance the natural effect.
For an example of what’s possible, see this magnificent storybook library that uses four artificial trees to create a serene reading space in a Qld school. To discuss ideas and get estimates for your project, contact Natureworks now!
