Marcus Butler
20 November 2015: Students and staff from the University of Canberra have created a sculptural plywood installation to bring life to Canberra's Garema Place.
The Pavilion X project is a partnership between the University, the Australian Institute of Architects, the ACT Government, Canberra CBD Limited and other community and industry supporters.
Project leader and designer with the University of Canberra Patrick Stein said Pavilion X drew some inspiration from other pavilion projects around the world, which have been used to showcase architectural innovation and bring life to city precincts. The temporary design consists of multi-level objects, which can be used as bench seating or tables, resembling topographical map forms or clouds.
"The team behind Pavilion X had Garema Place in mind from the beginning. We wanted to spark conversations about urban renewal, public space and aspirations for the city," Mr Stein said. "Garema Place, while some might say feels neglected, has great foundations. It is the heart of the city and still loved by many. The installation forms a space for Canberrans to dwell amongst the trees."
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Pavilion X will be a versatile installation, that can be used as communal seating or tables. Installing Pavilion X are (L-R) John Ferguson, Binh Mai, Jaymes Hillman, Stephen Barrass, Susana Kavadias, Sandy Chen, Sam Pauletto. Photo: Asha Tsimeris
"We were inspired by the observation that bench seats in Civic are individually placed and underused, Pavilion X offers a more communal, shared space.
"As Braddon gentrifies, we hope Garema Place and City Walk will be where we next see a creative urban renaissance," he said.
Numerous designs were drawn up and explored by more than 30 students and staff involved in Pavilion X.
"We approached this project as a work integrated learning opportunity. Starting out with a concept, we spent hours building up project proposals with many expert guests from the community, government and industry. Working on a project with real constraints and learning by making has been a unique and special opportunity for students."
Pavilion X will be officially opened in Garema Place by ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr MLA and Professor Lyndon Anderson, dean of the Faculty of Arts and Design on Saturday 21 November and will remain in place until January.
Mr Stein said during the Design Canberra festival it will be used as a venue for meetings with architects and designers to share perspectives and explore design ideas.
"The Institute of Architects and the University have put together an exciting program of events starting with Melbourne architect Jeremy McLeod presenting the Nightingale project as an alternative development model for affordable housing and a forum exploring the big visions for Canberra's future development chaired by Jack Waterford," Mr Stein said.
The festival will also feature architect-builder-client teams discussing their collaborations, and high school students are engaging in the Young Designers Take On Garema Place Ideas Competition, all based in and around Pavilion X.
In December, the Pavilion will be part of the Christmas in the City event, with an interactive light and sound scape to discover at night.
"As street furniture, the installation will be open to the public to use imaginatively. We are really looking forward to seeing how it is occupied. For example, we thought it could work well as an outdoor office for city workers with CBR free Wi-Fi, a lunch-time picnic spot and an intimate venue for buskers," Mr Stein said.
More information about the project, its development and a program of events is available on the project website: pavilionx.com.au.
