DHA Academy Close

Purpose-designed to accommodate Defence personnel associated with the Australian Defence Force Academy in Canberra, Academy Close comprises 30 dwellings designed to optimise site utilisation and resident amenity in accordance with Defence Housing Australia (DHA) design standards. The development incorporates 5 dwelling typologies with a mix of one and two storey houses, including larger, premium dwellings for senior Defence personnel.

The architectural character seeks to reference the broader context of the Royal Military College (RMC) Duntroon and ADFA by utilising a modern materials palette that reflects the bush setting of the site. The forms of the various buildings are authentic of their purpose, aligning with the Defence Force’s mindset of transparency.

Exploration of a number of site masterplanning options to address a steep level change across the site to arrive at optimal site utilisation while maintaining a sense of community and privacy Development of a consistent architectural character and expression across 30 dwellings Academy Close sets a new benchmark for DHA developments moving forwards in terms of design and environmentally sustainable outcomes.