ANU, Wamburun Hall
Nestled among the historic whispers of early Australian landscapes, where the venerable eucalyptus trees stretch their roots, lies a marvel of modern design—a harmonious blend of past and present.
Positioned delicately next to the majestic canopy of 120 eucalyptus trees, part of the Lindsay Pryor Eucalyptus plantings since 1952, this architectural endeavour presents a series of five interconnected pods, each flowing into the next in a ‘pyriform’ layout that seems to dance with the surrounding natural forms.
These pods, with their sinuous configuration, cradle an open-ended courtyard, facing north to bask in the sun’s embrace. This design not only captures the essence of the landscape but serves as a seamless bridge between the outside and the bustling life of the adjoining campus student accommodation. The courtyard becomes a living artery, with pedestrian flow and interaction, fostering a community that is both open and intimate.
Designed to offer 500 beds in a collegiate format, this residential project is a careful orchestration of individual student bedrooms paired with shared amenities. These include bathrooms, kitchens, dining areas, lounges, study spaces, and recreational facilities, all crafted to foster a sense of community and collective well-being. Beyond the private confines of the residence, facilities such as a library, a gathering hall, reception, and the tenderly landscaped areas extend an invitation to the broader university community, weaving this new addition into the fabric of campus life.
The site's rich history, once home to the Fenner School Field Services Building and enveloped by the pioneering eucalyptus plantings by Lindsay Pryor, infuses the project with a deep sense of continuity and legacy. These trees, the sole survivors of an era that stretched eucalyptus beauty over two miles, stand as a testament to time, marking the spot as a sanctuary of serenity and reflection amidst academic endeavour.
Unique U-Shape
Spanning approximately 15,000m^2 across seven stories, the structure’s pods are ingeniously connected by hinges, forming a ‘U-Shape’ that opens up towards the north, mirroring the college green of Burton & Garran Hall. This thoughtful orientation not only maximizes the benefits of natural light and warmth but also creates a visual and spatial dialogue with the environment, reinforcing the unity between the built form and its verdant context.
Spacious student rooms
Communal Dining
