PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

• Live Operating Environment
• Design & Construct
• Early Contractor Involvement
• Extremely High Level of Environmental Controls
• High Level of Stakeholder Management
• Bespoke Artwork Storage Systems
• BAL 29 Bushfire Requirements

A striking new addition to the TarraWarra Estate, The Eva & Marc Besen Centre (EMBC) redefines modern architecture while serving as a permanent exhibition space and visual storage for over 300 modern and contemporary artworks. Situated adjacent to the existing Museum of Art, EMBC was constructed on a former car park, navigating steep slopes and rocky terrain. Carved into the hillside, its curved structure echoes the existing museum, seamlessly integrating with the landscape. Accessibility is enhanced with a rooftop car park and a lift servicing the centre below.

The centre’s design is a masterclass in concrete craftsmanship, featuring custom curved precast panels, a striking steel-and-glass façade, and a distinctive tensile steel mesh veil that filters light and shadow. Visitors enter via a scenic sculpture walk framed by mature Poplar trees and curated artworks, complemented by a cascading water feature. Inside, the 2,200m² space showcases a 46-metre secure glass wall, allowing year-round public viewing of stored artworks. The open art rack area incorporates state-of-the-art environmental controls, ensuring optimal preservation conditions. Adjacent to the gallery, a versatile multi-purpose space accommodates exhibitions, educational workshops and performances. With a cutting-edge active audio system, it delivers an exceptional acoustic experience for up to 200 attendees – meeting the standards of even the Australian Chamber Orchestra.

Delivered within an exceptionally complex stakeholder environment – adjacent to an operational gallery, vineyard, and winery – the highly technical and bespoke design of EMBC exemplifies our team’s expertise in executing intricate, innovative construction solutions.