National Cartoon Gallery Extension

Public Building | Extension

Completed : 2020

g2 was approached by the Gallery Committee to resolve the final stages of the Bunker Gallery project. An original Concept Design sketch by Frank Scahill had been completed in order to apply for grant funding for the project. DRA Architects stepped in to undertake the Development Application but were unable to complete the full documentation for the final stages of the project. The Committee then sought recommendations for an architect to bring the project to completion and approached our team.

When g2 began work on the project there were some issues requiring resolution. We adapted the existing design, resolved detail challenges, and progressed the project through the Construction Certificate and final documentation.

In the original Concept, an end of the Bunker had been exposed. As we undertook design resolution it became apparent that unearthing a section of bunker would risk the heritage building fabric, and was inconsistent with the ‘inside only’ experience of an underground structure. We changed the proposed landscape plan and groundworks to allow the original structure to remain undisturbed, aside from a small section that can be viewed from inside the lift lobby. We also undertook a DA amendment to negotiate a longer building with more gallery space, separate the cafe from the main gallery, cover the cafe balcony, improve circulation, and improve waterproofing of the structure.

The completed Bunker Gallery is an additional volume that straddles the original bunker. It connects to the site without disturbing the bunker or it’s foundations, within a tight boundary outline, and without uprooting significant established trees. Arcpanel insulated panel was used to create a curved corrugated iron style roof, and the walls were finished to match. This is consistent with Scahill’s original concept of a structure that references a World War II Nissen hut.

This structure is the fruition of architectural contributions of several local architects whose design thinking allowed the successful completion of the project.

Consultants:

Interior Design- Natural Habitat Interiors and Design

Hydraulic Engineering- Glenn Haig and Partners

Electrical Engineering- Clarence Consultants

Mechanical Engineering- Faircloth Reynolds

Structural and Civil Engineering- Degroot and Benson

Builder- FM Glenn

Landscape Architect- Redbelly Landscapes

Architects:

Original Concept Design- Frank Scahill

Development Application- DRA Architects

DA Amendment, Construction Certificate and Construction Supervision- g2 architects