Anzac Hall, Australian War Memorial

About this project

A composition of three new buildings wraps around the back of the Australian War Memorial; each intentionally designed with deference to this significant cultural landmark.

The fan-shaped Anzac Hall comprises a long solid concrete wall that tapers dramatically to a thin edge at each end Unencumbered and elemental, the dark thin curving roof cantilevers over the main body of the building, suggesting the wing of a military aircraft.

A glass and steel bridge connects the original building to the new one at first floor level. This leads the visitor to a mezzanine level from where the contents of the large exhibition hall below become visible. Also accommodated on this level are services, café and an exhibition space. From this point the visitor can take in the display arranged in the hall below.

Having received the award for the AIA Most Outstanding Work of Public Architecture in 2025, Anzac Hall was demolished in 2021 for expansion of the museum despite options that achieved the expansion without demolition – a loss to Australia’s architectural heritage.

Awards

2005 RAIA National Sir Zelman Cowen Award for the Most Outstanding Work of Public Architecture in Australia

2005 RAIA ACT Chapter – Canberra Medallion