Double win for Curtin Yarning Circle at the AILA National Landscape Architecture Awards
Photo by Yvonne Doherty
Photo by Jessica Isabell Photography
The Curtin University Yarning Circle was honoured with two Landscape Architecture Awards at the recent AILA National Awards – in the categories of Cultural Heritage and Health and Education Landscape.
From the jury:
”Understanding the responsibility and obligations that come with knowledge should be the objective of all learning. Curtin University’s Yarning Circle is an excellent reminder of this for three reasons: first, because this was a student project created through an integrated and collaborative design approach; second, because of its siting along the Djiridji trail, which marks the physical and cultural entry to Curtin University’s Bentley Campus; and third, because in its design, its siting and its pedagogical function, it centres First Nation peoples’ knowledge.” Read more.
“A key focal point within a broader cultural trail, the Yarning Circle provides a lush, Indigenous landscape – soft, layered and textural – as a counterpoint to an integrated and charming ovaloid shelter, a place of pause and respite. Located adjacent to a remnant natural basin and sporting ovals, the scheme demonstrates a passion for detail and a clear understanding of the needs of all.” Read more.
We feel lucky to have been a part of bringing this project to life, and would like to express our warm gratitude to the many people involved in its conception and making – from Professor Simon Forrest (Curtin University's elder in residence at the time), Dr Noel Nannup, and the Curtin Centre for Aboriginal Studies, to Curtin School of Architecture students and lecturers, to everyone else involved. A big thank you and congratulations to all.
Project Credits
On Whadjuk Noongar land.
Client: Curtin University
Collaborators: Professor Simon Forrest (Curtin University Elder in Residence at the time of project), Curtin Architecture Students (Thomas Allan, Sam Chapman, Samuel Dawson, Ricardo Muller), Dr Noel Nannup, Curtin Centre for Aboriginal Studies, Curtin Properties Facilities & Development, ACCORP Project Managers, ESC Lighting, Stantec Engineering, Hydroplan Irrigation, HWA Quantity Surveyors.
