A considered study of what exists and an exploration of the circumstances of the history of the building and precinct... Leaving the eastern landscape alone, "Parliament House" takes the action towards the north into the public gardens - beyond the existing curtilage and into the ground plane.
The process of excavation reveals a sequence of public spaces that consistently refer to and expose the structure of the parliament building from many vantage points. What distinguishes the design is the imagery of the Spring Street stair form literally being extended across the park, beneath which a theatre, offices and meeting areas exist. Below ground on the wing, new public retail, cafes and a linear lower plaza create a place for the broader community and social encounters.
To the south a similar connection is made and new raised parkland created. The south face of the House is completed, this time with a green roof above new Parliamentary offices. Paradoxically, while ‘completing’ and showcasing the old Parliament House, the scheme also disconnects it… rendering it as an island.
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