The newest addition to the Australian National University campus in Canberr is the amazing John Curtin School of Medical Research building, by Lyons Architecture. The building features a series of internal spaces that are connected with stairs and open atria aimed at promoting social exchange and fraternization, in addition to research laboratories, a 200 seat public lecture theater and ample amounts of public exterior spaces.
courtesy of lyons architecture
The exterior of the building is clad in steel and digitally rendered and fabricated panels that represent molecules on coded DNA strands, giving the form a strong sense of movement and orientation. These panels gradually reveal the inner-workings of the school as the viewer approaches the entrance. While inside, the flexibly designed laboratories accommodate small and large groups, allowing research to be undertaken in a variety of manners. office areas for independent analysis and support staff are located next to the labs, delivering an integrated and highly efficient workplace.
courtesy of lyons architecture
Project info :
Architect: Lyons architecture
Location: Canberra, Australia
Size: 20,000 square metres
Client: Australian National University, John Curtin School of Medical Research
Project status: Complete, 2006
Awards: 2007 Australian Institute of Architects – National, 2007 Cement Concrete Aggregates Association – National, 2007 Cement Concrete Aggregates Association – ACT
Ibrahim Abdelhady is an architect, academic, and media entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in architecture and digital publishing. He is the Founder and CEO of Arch2O.com, a leading platform in architectural media, renowned for showcasing innovative projects, student work, and critical discourse in design. Holding dual PhDs in Architecture, Dr. Abdelhady combines academic rigor with industry insight, shaping both future architects and architectural thought. He actively teaches, conducts research, and contributes to the global architecture community through his writing, lectures, and media ventures. His work bridges the gap between practice and academia, pushing the boundaries of how architecture is communicated in the digital age.