Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country, Canberra, ACT, Australia
Ngurra, a landmark cultural institution in Australia’s Parliamentary Triangle, honors First Nations history and traditions through its recent design win.
Ngurra: The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Precinct by Djinjama with COLA Studio, Hassell and Edition Office in collaboration, won an 2025 International Architecture Award from The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design.
Design integration
The structure merges organic materials like rammed earth with flowing curves, echoing the landscape while contrasting nearby colonial buildings such as Parliament House, the High Court, and the National Gallery. This approach blends ancient elements with modern forms, positioning Ngurra alongside icons like the Sydney Opera House.
Reconciliation role
Located on unceded Aboriginal lands, Ngurra—the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Precinct—advances Australia’s reconciliation by housing the National Indigenous Knowledge and Cultural Centre alongside the National Resting Place. The name “Ngurra,” meaning home or place of belonging, underscores its inclusive purpose.
Cultural guidance
Developed with input from Ancestors and Country, the design reflects animal movements across Ngunnawal and Ngambri land, emphasizing connections to water, rivers, and mountains. Daniele Hromek, the First Nations designer and cultural advisor, noted that Ancestors guided the process, with Country shaping the outcome as a sustainable legacy.
Visitor spaces
An embracing canopy over the central plaza welcomes visitors for ceremonies and gatherings, oriented toward Bulajima (Mount Ainslie). The adjacent National Resting Place offers a secluded courtyard for repatriation, reflection, and private rituals amid rolling grounds.
Architects and Design team: Djinjama with COLA Studio, Hassell and Edition Office in collaboration
Architect; Hassell: Mark Loughnan, Jon Hazelwood, Adriano Denni, Anthony Thevenon, Michael G. White,
Clare Mayberry, Lauren Geschke, Ann Bainbridge, Simon Rich, Joe Loughnan
Design Collaborators: Djinjama; Daniele Hromek, COLA Studio; Kaylie Salvatori, Edition Office; Kim Bridgland, Aaron Roberts, Jonathan Brener, Oskar Liffen, Jiwah Clarence Slockee
Consultants: TTW, Arup, Steenson Varming
Client: The Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS)
Renderings: Renders by Hassell, Edition Office, WAX. Illustration by COLA Studio
