Greenaway Architects is part of the shortlisted team for the National Design Competition to create the ‘Ngurra Cultural Precinct’ in Canberra. Ngurra, meaning home, camp, a place of belonging, and a place of inclusion, will be an iconic development housing the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) and serving as a national resting place for repatriated ancestral remains.

Teaming up with BVN Architecture and Nguluway DesignInc as the Blak Hand Collective, Greenaway Architects committed to developing a design that embodies the competition’s themes of “renew,” “restore,” “replenish,” and “reflect.” The collaborative effort seeks to renew respect for heritage, exemplify restorative, climate-positive design, replenish economic opportunities, and foster innovation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This multidisciplinary approach, combining the expertise of an Indigenous lead team of architects, landscape architects, artists, anthropoligists, and supported by sub-consultants of engineers, ESD and services specialists, positions our team uniquely to create a cultural precinct that goes beyond architectural significance. The design will be a lasting legacy for all Australians, embracing the rich heritage and deep connection to Country of the Indigenous communities, across an area of appoximately 25,000sqm.

Our vision aligns with the competition’s goals of creating an iconic space that invites all Australians to learn, reflect, and embrace a common future.

Our submitted design showcases our dedication to crafting a design that is not only architecturally innovative but also culturally sensitive. We are excited about the opportunity to contribute to the creation of a National landmark cultural precinct that will stand as a testament to the significance and importance of Indigenous culture in the heart of Canberra.