The Northern Territory’s newest addition to its architectural landscape, Charles Darwin University’s $17 million Chancellery has been opened.
The Federal Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, Senator Kim Carr, opened the 4060 sqm, three-storey glass and concrete structure located on the southern edge of the Casuarina campus as a part of a special ceremony held on Monday, 9 November.
The project, which has employed more than 40 Territory businesses during its construction, has resulted in substantial revenue flowing into the local economy.
Senator Carr said the impressive new building encapsulated the innovative spirit of this forward-thinking regional university.
“The new Chancellery building has made a contribution to the local economy, the architectural landscape and the feel of the whole campus," Senator Carr said.
“It is an addition the community, on campus and off, can be proud of."
Hassell Architect principal, Brenden Kelly was given the brief to create a building that reflected CDU’s vision, values and geographic location.
Mr Kelly said that in conceiving the design, he visualised a space that was “progressive and contemporary in appearance”, avoiding at all costs an “establishment” feeling. The result is strong, crisp, modern forms throughout.
One of the most successful aspects of the building is its strong connection to the earth and landscape, achieved through the selection of materials, finishes and textures.
“The bold colours of the aluminium composite cladding are reminiscent of the colours of the harsh desert landscapes. The way daylight reflects and responds to the finish of these panels is similar to the way colours of the NT landscapes gradually change during the course of the day and seasons,” Mr Kelly said.
When it is fully occupied, the Chancellery will house about 140 staff including the Vice-Chancellor’s Unit, a suite to accommodate CDU’s governing council and a purpose-built art gallery for the CDU Art Collection.