The University of Canberra engaged Project Coordination to carry out the refurbishment of Building 5, Level B in accordance with the design of Lyons Architects. The refurbishment created a well lit and welcoming interior with open spaces, offices, meeting rooms, learning spaces, a kitchenette and family room as well as many other areas. Level B is characterised by an open paved internal courtyard containing two large planter beds and the refurbished “Futuro” reflective space. A new feature entry canopy provides the building with a bright, interesting focal point to highlight the entrance.

INNOVATION

The Building 5, Level B works incorporate a number of design and building innovations, including; Full height triple glazed windows from Germany surround the internal courtyard, providing the space with good natural light and achieving great thermal and acoustic performance.

The use of natural materials in an innovative manner is a feature of the refurbishment works with ash glazed timber partitions providing the offices with light and softening the look and feel along the corridor areas of the building. The bench and booth seating elements were custom fabricated on-site using ash plywood and the faces were then stained to create an innovative unique feature. A series of “Ronstan” catenary cables, carrying LED down-lights crisscross the courtyard at high level and provide an interesting ‘starry night’ feature for people occupying the building after sunset. The assembly and refurbishment of the “Futuro” in the Level B courtyard is an innovative design solution that has provided the building with an exciting, interesting classroom and learning space. The “Futuro” is air conditioned and features individual upholstered seating with power and data provisions.