Architectus acknowledges the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this nation as the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work.

We pay our respects to Elders, past and present.

Architectus is committed to honouring Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas and their rich contribution to society.

This website uses cookies to offer you a great experience and to help us understand how our website is being used. By using this website, you consent to our use of cookies. For full details on how we manage data, read our Privacy Policy.

Accept

National Herbarium of NSW concept design revealed

Architectus to co-design National Herbarium of NSW

The new National Herbarium of NSW will be located at the new precinct in Mount Annan – soon to be named the Australian Institute of Botanic Science.

In collaboration with architect, Richard Leplastrier and landscape architect, Craig Burton, Architectus has been awarded the opportunity to design the new space which will house more than 1.4 million plant specimens.

The team explored and researched the nature of the site, the complexity and extensive indigenous history of the region and the functional requirements of herbaria. Through creative collaboration, a joint concept design was developed to secure the preservation of the specimens that facilitate scientific research and give physical expression to the Herbarium and its precious contents.

National Herbarium of NSW | Public architecture

The solution needed to provide for precise environmental conditions to preserve the precious specimen collection, within a tight temperature and humidity and from complete isolation from insect infestation. In contrast to this, the facility is to be engaging for public visitation. Establishing a harmonious balance between the two presents a significant challenge.

Architectus Principal, Luke Johnson says, “It is a privilege to work on this project. Plants are central to our planet’s habitability and sustainability, and the research and visitor interaction with the new Herbarium’s extensive plant collection will facilitate positive environmental and societal outcomes for generations to come.”

Treasurer, Dominic Perrottet says, “The Herbarium houses one of the most important and significant collections of plant specimens in the world, and this purpose-built facility will ensure Australia is at the forefront of conservation and management for generations to come.”

Read the NSW Government announcement here.

More

National Herbarium of NSW | Public architecture
Architectus Conrad Gargett projects shortlisted for Victorian Architecture Awards
National Herbarium of NSW | Public architecture
A ticket to the world: our new tool for inclusive air travel
National Herbarium of NSW | Public architecture
Mission critical: The rising demand for data centres