Following its enforced closure after damage inflicted by severe hailstorms in January 2020, the Shine Dome, orignally designed by Roy Grounds, has been restored and is reopen.
In 2020, a catastrophic hailstorm dented the copper roof tiles and smashed several skylights, exposing the scientific archives to the elements. Significant works have taken place to restore the heritage-listed building to its former glory, including recladding the signature copper roof, which has been redesigned to deliver greater energy efficiency.
The bright copper sheathing is intended to oxidise and gather a green-brown patina over time.
Image:
Martin Ollman for the Australian Academy of Science.
As per the original construction, the concrete roof of the dome is sheathed in copper, under which is a layer of vermiculite that serves to insulate the interiors from outside temperatures. During the restoration, a second layer of copper was applied over the original, with a new waterproof material placed between the two layers. The new dual layer will create a ventilated roof, with airflow between the copper sheets providing insulation and improving the building’s energy efficiency. The bright copper sheathing is intended to oxidise and gather a green-brown patina over time.
Built in 1958 for the Australian Academy of Science, the Shine Dome quickly became a Canberra landmark of architectural and historical significance. It has received numerous awards and various recognition, including being named one of only seven projects the Australian Institute of Architects has nominated to the World Register of Significant Twentieth Century Architecture.
Copper shingles being attached to Shine Dome, circa 1958.
Image:
Courtesy of the Australian Academy of Science.
Australian Academy of Science chief executive Anna-Maria Arabia said that when the Shine Dome was first built, its design was described as “unconventional and futuristic”, creating significant challenges for the architects and engineers that still applied in the 21st century restoration.
A 100-year time capsule was placed inside the roof of the Shine Dome before the completion of the restoration, containing messages from the academy fellows to the scientists of the future, as well as newspaper headlines from 2020, a printout of the SARS-CoV-2 virus genome, and landmark academy reports on the issues faced in our contemporary time.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
