Ngunawal
Australian Capital Territory
9 Molonglo Drive marks a significant architectural milestone as the southern gateway to Brindabella Business Park. Designed by AMC Architecture for Capital Airport Group, this $19,158m2 A-Grade commercial building resolves a challenging triangular site through a theatrical form characterised by softened corners and a dual-toned, dichroic-like facade.
The project is defined by its 100% electric, carbon-neutral operations and a 5.5 Star NABERS Energy target. Internally, expansive 3,000m2 floor plates are organized around a soaring, full-height atrium that pulls natural light deep into the workspace. By strategically positioning building services, the design ensures large, contiguous floor plates that offer occupants uninterrupted views of the Molonglo River. 9 Molonglo Drive represents a sophisticated blend of commercial efficiency and civic presence, delivering high-performance workplace design at a competitive value of approximately $3,500/m2 .
AMC Architecture makes a virtue of a constrained triangular site, producing a building that marks arrival to Brindabella Business Park with clarity and commercial confidence. The facade — curved glass, dual-toned angled sunshades and articulated service cores — carries a richness and consistency from ground plane to roofline that rewards close attention. Internally, a full-height central atrium animates an otherwise inward-facing secure workplace, drawing light deep into the floor plate and providing an informal counterpoint to the building’s operational demands. The result is a disciplined and well-resolved piece of commercial architecture.
9 Molonglo establishes a landmark southern gateway to the business park, marking arrival to both the precinct and Canberra from NSW. Delivered on a constrained site, the building maximises value through a high-performance, flexible floorplate that supports long-term adaptability and reduces future fit-out waste. High levels of integrated security are embedded throughout the design, supporting safe and resilient operations. Generous end-of-trip facilities and strong active travel connections promote sustainable commuting. Operating as a carbon-neutral building, the project sets a new benchmark for secure, future-ready commercial development.
Craig Perrott, Design Architect
Danien Beets, Project Lead
Eric Werner, Architect
John Ramanu, Architect
David Chandra, Architectural Draftsperson
Nicholas Sutherland, Architect
William (Bill) Neate, Architectural Draftsperson
Michal Kornaci, Architectural Draftsperson
Simeon Truter, Student of Architecture
Sellick Consultants, Structural & Civil Engineer
ACOR Consultants, Mechanical, Hydraulic, Acoustic Engineer and ESD Consultant
Façade Innovations, Facade Engineer
LIT Consulting, Fire Engineer
Steve Watson & Partners, Building Surveyor
LCI, Green Star Consultant
Veris, Surveyor