University House

the australian national university

A Foundation Building for ANU

University House was the first major building constructed for the Australian National University and remains one of the institution's most significant places. Designed by architect Brian Lewis and opened in 1954, it was conceived as a residential and social centre for academic life, drawing inspiration from British faculty clubs while establishing a distinctly Australian identity. Recognised on the Commonwealth Heritage List and awarded the 1953 Sir John Sulman Medal, University House is notable for its architecture, interiors, courtyards, gardens, artworks and furniture collection.

Following a catastrophic hail storm in 2020 which instigated the project, over a six-year period, Lovell Chen provided heritage and architectural services for a major program of conservation, remediation and refurbishment works. The project sought to conserve the building's heritage significance while ensuring it continues to support contemporary accommodation, hospitality, ceremonial and community functions.

Details

Client

The Australian National University

Date

2021-2026

Status

Completed

Location

Canberra/Kamberri

Traditional Owners

Ngunnawal and Ngambri peoples

Collaborators

Kendra Pinkus Design

Original Architect

Brian Lewis

Image © Gavin Green

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Image © Gavin Green

Conserving and Renewing a Mid-Century Landmark

The works were guided by a rigorous conservation approach that respected the building's original design while recognising the need for carefully considered renewal. Extensive repairs to the hail-damaged building fabric included restoration of the roof and façade, replacement of building services and the conservation of significant interior finishes throughout. Works to the building envelope adopted a like-for-like approach consistent with best-practice heritage conservation.

The opportunity was also taken to improve accessibility and building functionality through new lifts, upgraded access routes, accessible accommodation and improvements to circulation throughout the complex. A comprehensive services upgrade supported the University's Zero Carbon objectives through the electrification of building systems, removal of gas services and installation of more efficient infrastructure. Together, these components of the project ensure University House can continue to serve the functions for which it was originally designed: accommodation, ceremony and collegial exchange.

“Our design focused on a rigorous and authentic conservation of the original fabric, maintaining and refreshing the restrained mid-century modern aesthetic while ensuring the amenity and services enables its continued use - as designed - for accommodation, ceremony and academic collegiality.”

ANNE-MARIE TREWEEKE, DIRECTOR

Image © Gavin Green

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Reinterpreting the Interiors

The interior refurbishment sought to honour the character of the original 1950s design while creating spaces that feel comfortable, contemporary and welcoming. Rather than recreating the past, the design team sought to capture the essence of the building's mid-century aesthetic and reinterpret it for a new generation of residents, guests and visitors.

Accommodation rooms were refurbished to provide a balance between faithfully reconstructed heritage suites and contemporary guest rooms. Public spaces were carefully conserved, including original terrazzo, parquetry, leather finishes and acoustic treatments. New cafés, hospitality spaces and amenities were integrated within the existing fabric to support modern operation while respecting the building's character.

Throughout the project, the interiors were enriched by a carefully curated palette inspired by the original rooms. Earthy terracotta tones, deep blues, fresh yellows and turquoise hues draw on the building's heritage while creating a lighter and more contemporary atmosphere.

Image © Gavin Green

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Image © Gavin Green

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Image © Gavin Green

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Celebrating the Fred Ward Collection

A defining feature of the project was the conservation and reinstatement of University House's remarkable collection of furniture designed by Fred Ward. More than 1,600 pieces were carefully refurbished and returned to service, preserving a collection that forms an integral part of the building's heritage significance.

The restored furniture sits alongside conserved artworks, including works by Leonard French, creating interiors that celebrate both the history of University House and its ongoing evolution. Original pieces have been thoughtfully combined with contemporary furnishings, reinforcing a design approach that values continuity rather than replication.

The result is a renewed University House that remains recognisably itself: a place where architecture, design, scholarship and community continue to come together, just as they have since the building first opened more than seventy years ago.