Photo Peter Bennetts

Several shades of gold shimmer from dark to light, metallic to rose, depending on the way the sun hits the new Ngoolark Student Services building. It is a shimmering, golden façade, demanding attention in Perth, western Australia. The project, reaching six levels, is named after the endangered white tailed black cockatoo, indigenous to the area. Ngoolark stands as an impressive civic building that has brought together the many functions the campus building serves.


Photo by Peter Bennetts

The building, designed by JCY Architects & Urban Designers, is detailed with a perforated aluminum metal shell and then, enveloped in 1,500 panels. The mastery of the design gives the building a three-dimensional shape from the street, while becoming completely transparent when viewed from the inside. Alucobond panels can be seen used on the lower levels of the project in varying shades of Spectra Desert Gold, Bronze and Gold Metallic, fabricated by Denmac Pty Ltd. The Alucobond aluminum composite material (ACM) complements the remaining perforated exterior, with its similarly shimmering and light-changing abilities.


Photo by Rob Ramsay

One challenge the architects were tasked with achieving in designing the important infrastructure was to connect the numerous buildings and paths through the University, which had been left disconnected. The project was considered a huge success by providing a solution connecting the two primary administrative buildings. The project, as a whole, links the administrative buildings, the library, the lecture theater and all primary pedestrian links. The student services building fits in well with the master plan of the campus’ design.


Photo by Peter Bennetts

The interior features fresh open plans on every level, exposure to natural light from north to south, and exceptional collaborative work areas. In addition, breakout and social spaces are accommodated on each level. Even the office space is versatile and useful as classrooms, should the University’s needs evolve.

Much of the inspiration for the design came as a result of a consultation with the local Aboriginal community and Kurongkurl Katitjin (ECU’s center for indigenous studies). Inspiration from the movement of water can be seen throughout, from the podium to the charcoal forum paving with its swirling white lines. The innovative design of the gold perforated aluminum sun-shading exterior even mimics the feathers of the endangered cockatoo, Ngoolark.

information courtesy of JCY Architects & Urban Designers and Arch Daily
photography © Peter Bennetts and Rob Ramsay (see caption below image)