Education Precinct Reaches Major Milestone

SEPTEMBER 2021

Taking a big step forward, the Charles Darwin University (CDU) Education and Community Precinct has received its planning approvals for the design, reaching a major milestone for the project.

The design has been developed by multidisciplinary studio MODE, the $250 million project is the centrepiece of the 10-year Darwin City Deal, a partnership between  the Australian and Northern Territory governments and the City of Darwin.

The design is focused around the heritage listed boab tree, creating a new public gathering space for the people of Darwin.  The building form has responded to the boab, with a sloping façade form to ensure the tree is not overshadowed and is provided with the necessary solar access to ensure the continued long life of this special landmark of the city.

The approved final design responds to the tropical climate of Darwin. A layered façade with louvre screens and external terrace spaces protects the building from the direct heat loads of the harsh tropical sun, while creating a sense of permeability and connectivity between internal spaces and the external community spaces.  Large covered spaces blur the boundaries between internal and external spaces, integrating the functionality of the building into the community spaces, while providing protection from both the heat and driving storms.

Innovative and flexible learning spaces will provide students with an education facility that meets their current and future needs and connects the community, including the students who will work, learn in the heart of the city.  

Principal and Project Director Robert McCray

“We’re excited to have the opportunity to work on such a significant project, which will showcase the best of the Northern Territory and Charles Darwin University. Our focus has been on developing a design that delivers a landmark building for Darwin which is climatically responsive, aesthetically appealing, and will be accessible and inviting to both students and the wider community.”

MODE is well versed in the design and delivery of key education facilities in the Northern Territory. having delivered the award winning Bullocky Point Education Precinct, as well as major staged works at Good Shepherd Lutheran College and the Essington School. They have designed numerous tertiary projects across Australia including the award-winning EDGY Building at the University of Southern Queensland’s Springfield campus.

With early works now commenced, construction on the new Education and Community Precinct is due to be completed in the first quarter of 2024..

Please read about the project in Architecture AU here

Image: MODE Charles Darwin University Education and Community Precinct