Inspired by the landscape and topography of the site in Yarralumla, the design for the German Embassy in Canberra creates a garden that is both representative and intimate, yet poetic. The oval shape of the lawn and the surrounding tree canopies naturally form a gently sloping, space-defining arc. A new pergola roof complements this emerging space and connects both the buildings and the natural environment—a metaphor for the relationship between Germany and Australia.
The new three-story law firm building and the two-story residence reflect the scale of the surrounding structures. The law firm translates the natural topographical drop into a split-level system that creates short sightlines and pathways within the interior. The horizontally encircling canopy structure, with its textured underside and light openings, creates a variety of spaces for informal meetings, breaks, and retreat.
The new landscape architecture follows the genius loci and incorporates elements of the Monaro Grasslands: Eucalyptus trees and native grasses replace the previous energy- and water-intensive planting with a drought-resistant garden. The design employs a mixed construction method using wood and hemp-lime for the upper floors, and reinforced concrete for the basement and cores. Recycled demolition materials are reused in the exterior areas, and rainwater is fully absorbed on-site.
