155 University Avenue
Canberra ACT 2601
Australia
Overview
The ANU brief was to incorporate flexible and open learning spaces within the new building to create a functional and versatile learning environment. BVN achieved this flexible and open plan structure through the use of mass timber, namely CLT and Glulam.
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Structure
The need for modularity and the efficient use of timber informed the 7.5 x 7.5m grid design. Commercial projects more than often require rigorous material efficiency, and a grid system can help address this. The development of an innovative, locally-assembled rib deck flooring system also contributed to material efficiency.
The prefabrication of the superstructure ensured a quick installation which supported the ambitious 24 month design & delivery programme and improved safety in construction. The use of a locally-assembled rib deck flooring system and the exposed timber roof truss drastically dematerialised the building.
Wood-wool panels were applied between the ribs where greater acoustic performance was required without diminishing the prominence of the exposed timber structure or the sustainable performance of the building.
The structural design supports the architectural intent of the building, which celebrates the honesty, simplicity and natural beauty of mass timber construction.
Structural elements included
- All core walls were constructed from European Spruce CLT
- Facade K braces were constructed of European Spruce Glulam
- All truss chords and webs were constructed from GL17 Australian Pine
The facade celebrates the mass timber construction system, which is still in its infancy. The use of external glazing reveals the glulam beams throughout the project.
Interior
The interior experience is one of warmth and character, with the innovative flexible learning spaces tied together with a dramatic circulation stair which makes for an enriching learning environment.
Exposing the interior timber not only contributed hugely to the sustainable outcomes for the building, but it provides an incredibly interesting and welcoming interior environment, with the natural wood greatly softening the space. Exposed services run through the open ceiling spaces, contributing to the industrial atmosphere.
The lack of ceiling and wall linings in the teaching and common spaces also avoided the use of far more carbon intensive materials, and those with high VOC contents.
Using timber produces positive wellbeing outcomes for the learning environment, such as improved air quality, lower stress levels and improved attention and focus. The use of timber also embedded flexibility in the design and allowed the university to adapt to changes in their teaching requirements. The teaching spaces can be expanded and contracted at grid locations with the use of operable walls.
Internal timber detailing includes
- European Spruce Tilly door frames and leaves were used in the CLT cores
- European Spruce Tilly panels were used to over clad the stair balustrades
- Solid Tasmanian Oak for the handrail and balustrade capping
- Tasmanian oak for the ground floor stair treads and risers
