Project Profile: Jane Foss Russell Building | USYD
A FRESH CONNECTION A dynamic new building at the University of Sydney heralds
By Jodie Thomson
a new era of modern architecture at the institution, while providing essential, functional facilities.
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ike many universities around the world, the University of Sydney’s campuses display a hybrid of architecture styles. Historic, sandstone buildings from the university’s earliest days mix with structures from later decades. The latest addition to the university, the newly completed Jane Foss Russell Building, is an innovative example of contemporary, 21st century architecture. Located at the geographical heart of the university on the Darlington campus facing City Road, the eight-level building houses a new science and technology library, along with retail and student administration areas and a generous, outdoor public domain area. Conceived as a
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new ‘gateway’ to the university, the building also provides a visual and practical link to the Darlington and Camperdown campuses, with a new footbridge constructed across City Road. John Wardle Architects, who won an international design competition for the building, designed the building in association with GHD and Wilson Architects. The $50 million project, completed in September last year, was constructed by Abigroup. Along with providing much-needed space and updated facilities, the Jane Foss Russell Building brings a new standard of modern architecture and unprecedented levels of environmentally sustainable design to the university.