Tara Swincer

This external perspective view depicts how the project sits within its landscape. The material palette aims for the building to merge with its surroundings, whilst symbolising the important Martu ranger fire practices (Waru.)

This view is a digital, hand-sketched rendered view utilisng procreate.

The spatial planning revolves around a communal central space, adapting the Indigenous symbols for campsite, people sitting together and windbreak. The central outdoor space allows for informal meetings/tea gatherings and links the indoor building elements.

The project prioritises convenient vehicle circulation, wind protection and Northerly sun access for a building primarily utilised in Winter.

These sections reveal the relationship between the central protected firepit and gathering space and the surrounding structures. Sharing tea, have a fire and conversing are important to Martu rangers and therefore at the centre of the project.

The deep profile aramax fly roofing, in combination with polycarbonate highlight windows allows for low angle Winter sun to penetrate the building, which is key for the Winter use building.

Perforated metal and translucent polycarbonate screens dictate areas of visibility versus privacy for the communal areas and private ranger accommodation units.

The design of the administration spaces had complex spatial relationships to uphold as well as considering cultural avoidance protocols.

Multiple access points and clear views of interior spaces are provided, with waiting areas for meetings to welcome visitors to the space.

Gathering and informal training spaces are spread throughout the project, prompting interactions and learning to expand the Martu ranger program.

The project is located in the rural Indigenous community of Punmu, 21 hours drive from the nearest city, Perth.

Pre-fabrication was a key design consideration for the projects viability on the site.
The project follows a hybrid pre-fabrication method; with footings, framing and decking installed on site by rangers, then completely pre-fabricated volumetric modules transported and installed within the in-situ framing system.

The fly roofing is delivered pre-cut and secured over the modules and framing.
This approach ensures ranger involvement, economic savings and high quality, durable construction.

This perspective view depicts the central outdoor gathering and fire pit space.
Revealed here is the screened entrances to the ranger units and the translucent relationship to the more public areas.

Rammed earth seating and tiered seats allows for multiple gathering or training areas, surrounded by native planting to provide breaks from the built environment.
Rammed earth assembly involves the rangers in the construction process and is built from country, on country.

The mesh decking provides views to the undisturbed landscape and vegetation below, reinforcing the strong relationship between the project and the context upon which it sits.