Charles Darwin University Education & Community Precinct

The Terraces

Client: Charles Darwin University
Location: Darwin, NT

The objectives of the design team were to create an iconic building that reflects the aspirations of Charles Darwin University and the needs of the people of Darwin. Our focus was to develop a built form with greater permeability which could connect and engage with its surroundings.

We have sought to achieve this by developing a design which is more responsive to its setting, taking in consideration of the location and tropical climatic conditions of Darwin. By layering the façade, we can create internal spaces that are protected by direct solar exposure, controlling daylighting levels internally, while still maintaining visual connection to the public realm spaces. By inverting the atrium space, we have developed sheltered external spaces at every level of the building, creating more permeability in the built form and encouraging connection and engagement between internal and external spaces.

The layered façade also creates a more climatically responsive, sustainable building, reducing heat loads and reducing the ongoing costs of air conditioning to maintain internal comfort levels. The built form provides increased levels of shade and shelter to the occupants and the general public, making the building more accessible and inviting.

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