School of Design & Built Environment at Curtin University.  

The Curtin University School of Design & Built Environment is an exceptional project that balances connections to ancient stories of place with the provision of a high-quality campus space. The co-creation of this site by artist and landscape architect has produced an experiential space rich in cultural narratives.

The Curtin University Living Knowledge Stream framework, by respected Elder Dr Noel Nannup with Syrinx and Sync7, identified the cultural significance of the site, where two Songlines, Kujal Kela (Twin Dolphin) and Djiridji (Zamia), intersect. This guidance document was awarded at a chapter and national level by AILA in 2018.

In response, Realm Studios developed a design that is grounded in a collaborative process. Throughout the project, the landscape architecture team consulted with the Curtin University School of Indigenous Studies and with Kamsani Bin-Salleh (Kambarni), a Western Australian artist who is descended from the Nimunburr, Yawuru and Ballardong people. The respectful treatment of Kambarni’s resulting artwork and its integration with the designed landscape defines this project as one that is embedded in the unique elements of place.  

The realised outcome – a landscape that is a seamless integration of art, amenity and storytelling – is evidence of an exceptional attention to process, collaboration and high-quality delivery.

To learn more, come along to the May edition of the Project Spotlight Speaker Series, to hear Damien Pericles of REALMstudios talk about the project. 

Project Spotlight Series

To learn more, come along to the May edition of the Project Spotlight Speaker Series, to hear Damien Pericles of REALMstudios talk about the project. 

LEARN MORE

2023 AILA National Award of Excellence for Health & Education Landscapes, 2023 AILA WA Landscape Architecture Award for Health & Education Landscapes 

On Whadjuk Noongar Country in Western Australia
Client: Curtin University 
Awarded to: REALMstudios with Kamsani Bin Salleh (Kambarni) & Apparatus, for Curtin University
Photography by: Frances Andrijich