Projects
The Eastern Precinct Development
“The Memorial ranks among the world′s great national monuments. Sharply etched grandeur and dignity, in its stylised Byzantine profile contrast with a distinctively Australian setting among lawns and eucalypts, at the head of a wide ceremonial avenue, ANZAC Parade. Kangaroos, occasionally straying from nearby bushy hills, add to the physical effect.”
Architects, Johnson Pilton Walker — July 2008
The Australian War Memorial in its building and setting has undergone a major transformation over the past decade, strongly reinforcing its importance in the historic and cultural landscape of Australia.
Building
- the Memorial building has been refurbished
- the Exhibitions have been revitalised
- ANZAC Hall enables dramatic “object theatre” presentations and associated public programs
- the C.E.W Bean building has provided improved curatorial and collection facilities, and make possible a much larger exhibition space for the new galleries Conflicts 1945 to today in the main building.
Setting
- the Western Courtyard and Sculpture Garden has been created
- the Parade Ground has been refurbished
- a Site Development Plan has been prepared
- a design has been prepared for a new National Service memorial.
These projects have all been part of a broader vision for the Memorial and they have been executed to a very high standard.
Site Development Planning
In 2001 the Australian War memorial engaged architect Richard Johnson (RAIA 2008 Gold Medalist) of Johnson Pilton Walker (JPW) to prepare a Site Development Plan for the Memorial precinct.
This Site Development Plan has already been substantially implemented in the Western Precinct and the Parade Ground. It is now time to bring the Eastern Precinct up to the same standard. The Eastern Precinct project involves complex design issues associated with creating visual and physical links to these other areas. It is also crucial that the character of the precinct be maintained while providing appropriate levels of amenity and safety for increasing numbers of visitors.
