Architecture
Australian PlantBank research facility - created to preserve indigenous seeds for the Royal Botanical Gardens at Mount Annan.
Behind a polished steel facade, PlantBank includes labs, storage for seed specimens, and exhibition rooms where visitors can observe scientists in action and learn about their projects.
In partnership with the Millennium Seed Bank at Kew Gardens, the Australian Plant Bank advances a global mission to preserve seeds and biodiversity.
The building’s cross-shaped design frames triangular courtyards with a sunken passageway between the two wings. Going under the east wing of the building – nominally passing under the ground – the building curves to the north and merges with the land.
Inside, a curved glass window provides forest views, and a pathway leads visitors past labs and welcome areas. The southern apex houses a seminar room, while the east wing includes meeting spaces and staff workspaces.
On the ground floor, we designed cold storage rooms, 
The lichen garden uses remnant sandstone blocks rescued from demolished Sydney buildings to host exotic plant colonies; a symbolic returning of the once shaped urban sandstone back into its natural composure.
Credits
BVN
Consultants
360 Degrees, AECOM, ARUP, Blackett Maguire + Goldsmith, Croudace Greenhouses International, Eco Logical Australia, Hanimine, MBMPL, Morris Goding Access Consulting, Ox Engineering Group, Urbis, Waterstone, X Squared Design, Findex Australia
Consultants
360 Degrees, AECOM, ARUP, Blackett Maguire + Goldsmith, Croudace Greenhouses International, Eco Logical Australia, Hanimine, MBMPL, Morris Goding Access Consulting, Ox Engineering Group, Urbis, Waterstone, X Squared Design, Findex Australia
Photography
John Gollings
Awards
The Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) National Cultural Heritage Award of Excellence (360 DEGREES and BVN in association) (2018)
The Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (AILA) NSW Culture and Heritage Award (360 DEGREES and BVN in association) (2018)
The Australian Institute of Architects National Award for Public Architecture (2014)
The Australian Institute of Architects National Award for Sustainable Architecture (2014)
The Australian Institute of Architects Awards for Public Architecture (NSW) (2014)
The World Architecture Festival High Commendation Research Buildings (2014)
The Australian Institute of Architects Awards for Sustainable Architecture (NSW) (2014)