Yungkurrinthi Inparrila Cultural Gathering Space
The Yungkurrinthi Inparrila Cultural Gathering Space at Flinders University is a unique opportunity to create a place where cultural, learning, landscape, celebration and curation are intrinsically intertwined to convey a multi-layered and multidimensional location.
Building on the principles of minimal disturbance and celebrating landscape, the cultural space is formed through a series of fibre reinforced plastic mesh decks. The decks provide access across the steep site for people of all abilities, at the same time. They allow sunlight, rain, and other elements to reach the earth below; enabling the uninterrupted re-vegetation of the site. Drawing inspiration from fallen gum leaves, the mesh decks form overlapping structures that surround a central amphitheatre space, facilitating a broad range of uses; from private study nooks to large capacity events.
Organically layered over the site, the amphitheatre decks frame the large compacted sand ceremonial space, centered with a shallow exposed aggregate concrete fire pit. Designed as a place of cultural learning, cooking, conversation, performance and of course, ceremonies, the large circular space is purposefully located in the centre of the site, able to be viewed from all angles.
The remainder of the site provides a range of exposed, sheltered, and private spaces through the retention and protection of all existing trees during design and construction. When not in use the fire pit is protected with a steel lid, patterned with a representation of culturally significant Kaurna locations.
The integration of Kaurna place making within a contemporary context was only achievable through an inclusive, respectful and collaborative process with Kaurna Elders and other First Nation People. Located on Kaurna Land, we acknowledge the Kaurna people as the traditional custodians of the lands and waters of the Adelaide region and pay respect to elders both past and present.
Similar projects: Victor Harbor Foreshore Amphitheatre, Walker Place