ANU Research School of Social Sciences
With higher education institutions competing to attract the best research talent and increase the ‘stickiness’ of campuses, The Australian National University’s Research School of Social Sciences (ANU RSSS) is built around fostering a community of shared ideas between research staff and students.
Designed as a ‘Forum in the Park,’ the building focuses on enhancing the research culture of the RSSS by co-locating academics seeking to respond to contemporary social and public policy challenges. Ingrained flexibility and technology, combined with both private and shared offices mean PhD students at differing stages of their candidature can come together for advice, consolation and camaraderie.
A central stair connecting the floors promotes connection and interaction between school departments, enhancing ANU’s reputation for innovation, excellence and internationally recognised scholarship.
Academics, PhD candidates and visitors wanting to do focussed, individual work have access to separate offices over five levels. Communal spaces, tea rooms, auditoriums and outdoor areas are distributed across the first two floors, designed to adapt to growth and changing demand as the RSSS continues to attract the best talent in the field of social sciences.
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Canberra, Australia
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“The communal areas in the building are slowly (but surely) beginning to be used to foment research collaborations between different departments which has not occurred in decades. Undergrads pack the library and tea room most days, particularly during exams. There is a deep appreciation of the facilities and amenities on offer here, and their exciting potential for us in RSSS.”
