National
Archives of Australia
Preservation Facility

The building complex comprises two boxes arranged around a central circulation spine, which offers flexible access to records storage on one side and records management and preservation on the other

The facade of the records storage box draws inspiration from the Australian landscape, featuring a weathered, uneven, and randomly textured surface that evokes a granite outcrop illuminated by a rising or setting sun. This reference to the ancient landscape symbolises the key element in preserving the nation’s records: the passage of time.

Records Management Building
“Future”

Highly finished and machine like, the straight lines suggest modern technology.

Record Storage Building
“Past”

Irregular patterns and weathered colours suggest the passage of time.
Painting by Petrillo

The architectural dialogue surrounding the design of the archives building aims to reflect not only the importance of safely and securely storing government documents but also to convey national symbolic significance and the responsibility of being the keeper of the nation’s collective memory.

client - doma group
design life - 70 years
photograhs - kiernan may

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