Bunganditj (Boandik)
South Australia
Designed to bring Council teams together under the one roof, the Wattle Range Council Service Centre showcases the region with the use of local materials and a quintessentially Australian ‘Akubra hat’ for a roof.
Local limestone, native plants, and Australian hardwood fencing landscape the building and adjacent watercourse. Rainwater is harvested, treated, and stored for use throughout the building. Double glazed windows with immersive landscape views provide natural light and a well vented roof space improves the thermal performance of the internal conditioned spaces by reducing energy demand. Internally, exposed structural elements made from local timber, Australian oak panel doors and joinery bring a tactile and psychological sense of well-being.
Through Chapman Herbert Architects technical and collaborative approach, the design delivers flexible workspaces bringing previously disconnected teams together in a series of neighbourhoods able to adapt to future changing needs.
The new Wattle Range Council Service Centre allows staff to work together for the first time in 29 years. Collaborating within the large open style layout has created an open work environment. Direct access to administration staff and the interview rooms has created a shared space for the public to also enjoy. The Chamber and catering room can be used as a function room or training space. The staff kitchen has allowed for a more relaxed space for taking a break and the design of the outdoor dining allows staff to exit the building and enjoy the open air.
Stephen Herbert, Design Architect
Philip Kidman, Project Architect
Robert Korzyniewski, Project Architect
Adelle Hegyvari, Graduate of Architecture
Tonkin Consulting, Structural Engineer
Lucid Consulting Australia, Services Consultant
Michael Smith and Associates, Landscape Consultant
Chris Sale Consulting, Quantity Surveyor
Build Serv, Building Surveyor