Architecture makes a difference to people’s lives, but some projects are more influential than others. Take Larni Garingilang Central Hub designed by GHD Design, a new visitor centre located in the Bendigo Botanic Gardens, that speaks of Country and creates connection for all people. Realised within a larger rejuvenation plan, the project has revitalised one of Victoria’s oldest regional Botanic Gardens and established it as a place to meet and gather but also to learn.

The new visitor centre is understated and comprises two simple timber boxes. Rammed earth walls have been created along the facades of the new buildings and this ensures there is a seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. The new buildings have been carefully positioned between existing gardens creating new circulation paths and providing clear sigh lines to the existing flora and water bodies.

Larni Garingilang includes a visitor information centre with displays of artwork, a café that utilises fresh and local produce and a multi-purpose community space. The centrally positioned buildings can be accessed from all sides and also serve as a new formal entry point to the Bendigo Botanic Gardens.

The design of the Hub has been highly considered in order to explore and present all aspects of cultural heritage and the history of the land. Commitment to Connection to Country is evident with the naming of the Central Hub, Larni Garingilang, that means ‘home of growth’ in the Dja Dja Wurrung language.

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The land on which Larni Garingilang is situated is Djaara Country and GHD Design collaborated with Traditional owners on every level. For example, the Indigenous garden beds reflect the six seasons of Country observed by the Dja Dja Wurrung people and these are, early winter, deep winter, pre-spring, true spring, high summer and late summer. The flora showcases local species used by the Dja Dja Wurrung people for food and medicine prior to colonisation. Key bush tucker species include Nardoo, Murnong (yam daisies) and wattle seeds.

As a gold rush town, the topography of Bendigo was devastated, turning the land over and creating what is now known as ‘upside-down Country’. As a healing project, the idea of upside-down Country is central to the design and the inclusion of earthen mounds with integrated seating represents spoil mounds and the importance of land remediation. Through consultation with Friends of Bendigo Botanic Gardens the aspects of harmony and functionality were also incorporated into the design.

GHD Design collaborated with GHD to create innovation with a comprehensive water capture and reuse system. Stormwater from the street is harvested and treated before being reused in the water body and the wetlands and, in fact, the entire gardens are watered from underground tanks. This extensive water capture system is a template for better water use for parks and gardens that does not strain potable water supply.

The Central Hub functions as an open landscape and connects both sides of White Hills as a public thoroughfare. The new buildings are adjacent to Bendigo Creek that has been an historic pathway for Traditional Owners. The use of water within the project provides ‘healing water’ and with the adjoining Bendigo Creek, an approach was adopted from the Dhelkunya Dja Country Plan, that aims to benefit the local microclimate. This also provides the opportunity to educate visitors in understanding the ideas of healing Country and the importance of water.

Martin Palmer, Director of Architecture, GHD Design comments, “Larni Garingilang represents a collaborative project where GHD Design worked with the Dja Dja Wurrung people and the community to create a harmonious fusion of functionality, heritage and nature. By addressing historical challenges and embracing cultural sensitivity, this project is not just a physical space but a catalyst for healing and education. It stands as a testament to the power of inclusive design and environmental stewardship, setting a standard for a future of creating vibrant, sustainable public spaces.”

Bendigo Botanic Gardens, Larni Garingilang Central Hub has transformed the visitor experience and addresses historical challenges actively contributing to the healing of Country. The project promotes community engagement, is culturally sensitive and aids in education. It serves as a model for creating inclusive, interactive and environmentally conscious public spaces that combines heritage and nature with exceptional results.

Larni Garingilang Central Hub is an entry to The Influencer in the 2024 INDE.awards and this category is proudly partnered by KFive Furniture.

GHD Design
ghd.com/design

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