Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre Pyramid Refurbishment – Tim Penny Architecture + interiors
Project summary
The Pyramids at Risdon Cove were originally built as the Bowen Park Visitor Centre in the 1970s. The Complex comprised a car park and two pyramids joined by a glazed link. One pyramid was used as an exhibition/interpretation space, the second pyramid was a theatrette. However, the buildings were difficult to use as they were large volumes with no insulation and outdated services. The Pyramid Refurbishment project provides an education facility for the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre to deliver community education and training programs for the Tasmanian Aboriginal community. This incorporates multipurpose rooms, a training kitchen and a demonstration health consulting room. It is an opportunity to give new life to an under-used suite of buildings situated on a significant site that combines with the Aboriginal Children’s Early Learning Centre. The redevelopment provides a multi-faceted TAC community asset for improved health and education outcomes. The new entry insertion is a linear, copper-clad form to counterpoint with the original powerful pyramids. The timber-lined lobby provides a light-filled public entry and presentation space for cultural artefacts in an informal meeting space.
Construction
Bennett Construction – builder
Consultants
Aldanmark Engineers – structural consultant
Engineering Solutions Tasmania – services consultant
Lee Tyers Building Surveyors – building surveyor