The Shine Dome - Australian Academy of Science
Acton, Canberra, ACT

Architeture: Roy Grounds of Grounds, Romberg & Boyd, Architects

A shallow arcaded concrete dome, sheeted in copper.

Peripheral arches in the dome spring from a moat which serves as a ring beam.

Integral, formed plywood seating reflects the circular interior.

Auditorium (Becker Hall) seats approximately 156. The Adolph Basser Library is situated in the top of the dome. The copper-sheathed concrete dome, 46 meters in diameter, weighs 710 tonnes and rests on 26 arches.

When opened, the building was described as being of "unconventional, futuristic design". The Academy of Science was established by Royal Charter in 1954. Its Fellows are eminent scientists in physical or biological sciences.

An original notice described the building as "Conference Chamber and Offices".