National Bonsai and Penjing Collection. Photograph by Brett Boardman.

  • Client ::

    • ACT Government

  • Location ::

    • Canberra, ACT

  • Completed ::

    • 2008

  • Team ::

    • Peter Tonkin, Bettina Siegmund

Project Description::

In 2008, TZG completed temporary facilities for the National Bonsai and Penjing Centre, for the ACT Government. Located in Commonwealth Park, the Centre houses the highly-significant National Collection until permanent facilities are constructed at the National Arboretum at Dairy Farmers Hill.

The Centre occupies the courtyard of a former caretaker’s cottage, which has been enclosed to provide shade and security. A simple palette of natural materials highlights the qualities of the trees, forming a quality background for the changing display. Externally, a new entry pavilion provides a space for orientation and information, and the landscape has been reconfigured to feature two large bonsai.