The architectural design is organic and part of a competition winning proposal by Architects Tonkin Zulaikha Greer.

Project Coordination (Australia) Pty Ltd construction managed the project for no fee.

The building features a main space with dramatic engineered timber structure; curved, laminated hardwood beams, up to 56m long and varying radii. A curved glass roof interlaces with a zinc roof, forming a central feature to the entry and high activity areas. The building also houses the National Bonsai and Penjing collection. There is a retail area, cafe, restaurant and covered outdoor learning area. 

INNOVATION

The main challenge involved finding a way to safely construct a complex shape that met the design intent, but also was within budget.

The building is high quality, hosting large numbers of visitors daily and is for public benefit.