Commonwealth Place, Canberra
Commonwealth Place, located on the southern shore of Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra鈥檚 National Triangle, is a versatile public space designed to accommodate a range of activities from major events to casual family gatherings. Spanning approximately 100 by 50 meters, the space is thoughtfully laid out with a central design that integrates seamlessly into Griffin鈥檚 Land Axis. This layout features a walkway that connects Commonwealth Place to Reconciliation Place, enhancing its accessibility and functionality.
The design of Commonwealth Place incorporates Australian sandstone for the rear wall and walkway walls, while the walkway itself is paved with Australian bluestone, creating a cohesive and locally resonant aesthetic. The space also includes undercroft areas that house a caf茅/restaurant and office spaces, providing both convenience and vitality to the area. The addition of Speakers Square, a Centenary of Federation gift from the Canadian Government, adds a significant focal point for ceremonies and celebrations, including flag-raising events.
A notable feature of Commonwealth Place is the grove of trees planted in the shape of the Southern Cross, offering shade and adding a distinctive element to the western side of the square. The square was completed in 2002 and designed by Durbach Block Architects in collaboration with Sue Barnsley Design. It has been recognized for its architectural merit, winning the Australian Capital Territory Chapter of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects Urban Award in 2003.
The Commonwealth Place Forecourt, which was part of the initial works, enhances the recreational use of the lake by introducing a shared pedestrian zone and two jetties. These jetties, made from recycled timber and plastic, facilitate easy landing for small craft such as rowing sculls, yachts, and dinghies, promoting a greater engagement with the lake. This thoughtful design helps integrate the public space with its natural surroundings, making Commonwealth Place a key site for both community activities and individual leisure.
The design of Commonwealth Place incorporates Australian sandstone for the rear wall and walkway walls, while the walkway itself is paved with Australian bluestone, creating a cohesive and locally resonant aesthetic. The space also includes undercroft areas that house a caf茅/restaurant and office spaces, providing both convenience and vitality to the area. The addition of Speakers Square, a Centenary of Federation gift from the Canadian Government, adds a significant focal point for ceremonies and celebrations, including flag-raising events.
A notable feature of Commonwealth Place is the grove of trees planted in the shape of the Southern Cross, offering shade and adding a distinctive element to the western side of the square. The square was completed in 2002 and designed by Durbach Block Architects in collaboration with Sue Barnsley Design. It has been recognized for its architectural merit, winning the Australian Capital Territory Chapter of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects Urban Award in 2003.
The Commonwealth Place Forecourt, which was part of the initial works, enhances the recreational use of the lake by introducing a shared pedestrian zone and two jetties. These jetties, made from recycled timber and plastic, facilitate easy landing for small craft such as rowing sculls, yachts, and dinghies, promoting a greater engagement with the lake. This thoughtful design helps integrate the public space with its natural surroundings, making Commonwealth Place a key site for both community activities and individual leisure.
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Commonwealth Place on Map
Sight Name: Commonwealth Place
Sight Location: Canberra, Australia (See walking tours in Canberra)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Canberra, Australia (See walking tours in Canberra)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Canberra, Australia
Create Your Own Walk in Canberra
Creating your own self-guided walk in Canberra is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Canberra Civic Center Walking Tour
Civic Centre, often simply called Civic, lies at the heart of Canberra, Australia's purpose-built capital. This central district is not only a hub for shopping and dining but also a significant cultural and historical site. At its core, lie an array of landmarks that tell the story of the city's past and vibrant present.
Starting with the Australian War Memorial, located at the... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
Starting with the Australian War Memorial, located at the... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
Canberra Downtown Walking Tour
Australia鈥檚 capital, Canberra, is jokingly nicknamed the "Bush Capital鈥� for the abundance of forested and natural reserve lands around. What's now the Australian Capital Territory previously has been inhabited by Aboriginal people for more than 20,000 years.
The name "Canberra" originates from the Aboriginal Australian language and means a "meeting place".... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
The name "Canberra" originates from the Aboriginal Australian language and means a "meeting place".... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles