by Ken Maher
Landscape Architecture Australia
No. 130, May 2011
pp. 46-47
In 'New work in a new context' (Landscape Architecture Australia, May 2011), HASSELL Chairman Ken Maher discusses the new Australian Garden, which is part of the National Gallery of Australia, and the challenges such a project presents for landscape architects.
The landscape associated with the original building is a seminal work by Harry Howard and Associates, notable for its sculpture garden, which is a sensitive integration of architecture and landscape, moderating, humanizing and celebrating Col Madigan's and Christopher Kringas's (of Edwards Madigan Torzillo and Briggs) heroic brutalist architecture.
McGregor Coxall was the practice engaged to rethink the garden and Maher discusses the homage the landscape architects pay homage to the original design of the garden, including Madigan's geometric order.
In the article Maher says, Both the landscape and architecture of the new additions to the NGA provide some positive experiences with accomplished execution, yet sadly lack the conviction - however flawed - and integrity of relationship found in their predecessors."
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