Hunt Architects acknowledge the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and conduct our business.

We pay our respects to Elders past and present. We value their continuing culture and contribution to the life of our nation, regions and cities.

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UWA Sports Park Upgrade

UWA Sports Pavilion

Delivered in close collaboration with The University of Western Australia, the upgraded Neil Donaldson Pavilion redefines the sporting experience at the centre of UWA’s expansive McGillivray precinct.

The Neil Donaldson Sports Pavilion sits prominently in the middle of the surrounding ovals, the pavilion occupies a remarkable and highly visible site—one that immediately draws attention as you travel down McGillivray Road. This unique setting called for an architectural response that could both anchor the precinct and remain open, welcoming and intertwined with the green landscape that surrounds it. The pavilion has been envisioned as a modern and flexible sports hub that supports a broad mix of users:

students pursuing competitive sport, club members preparing for game day, alumni returning to reconnect, and community members visiting for recreation or social gatherings. High-quality change rooms and secure locker facilities offer comfort and accessibility for all athletes, with equitable spaces designed specifically to support both men’s and women’s teams. The result is a facility that not only elevates the athlete experience but aligns with contemporary expectations for fairness, dignity and inclusivity in sport.

A Flexible Social Hub at the Centre of the Precinct

At the core of the pavilion’s interior is a highly versatile function space designed to transform effortlessly between a variety of uses. Through the integration of movable partitions and curtains, the area can be tailored to suit intimate meetings, club presentations, post-match celebrations or fully catered private events. With its built-in bar and professional catering facilities, the pavilion extends its role beyond game day, becoming a vibrant social anchor for both the university and wider community. Ample storage throughout the building further strengthens its operational performance, enabling it to support the demands of multiple sporting codes throughout the year.

An Elevated Spectator Experience

A defining hallmark of the pavilion is its exceptional spectator experience, achieved through carefully considered siting and building form. Spectators are brought closer to the action than ever before, heightening the energy and community spirit that surrounds competition. Expansive glazing and elevated vantage points offer sweeping 270-degree views across several playing fields, allowing visitors to engage with multiple activities simultaneously. This sense of openness extends outward to the broader public, with the pavilion intentionally designed to be accessible and welcoming to all—not just club members—making it a true community facility.

Design Inspiration

The design draws inspiration from two key sources: the surrounding precinct’s collection of well-preserved modernist buildings—timeless architectural gems—and UWA’s commitment to delivering high-quality environments both on and off campus. Positioned on a grassed bank overlooking three play fields and the athletics track, the new building becomes a beacon within the sports precinct. Its restrained material palette of steel, glass, stone, and tile, softened with warm timber accents, emphasises craftsmanship and precision. Every detail has been carefully considered to create a refined, enduring, and contextually responsive architectural outcome.

 

A Pavilion That Strengthens Identity and Legacy

Beyond its physical structure, the Neil Donaldson Pavilion upgrade stands as a meaningful tribute to Neil Donaldson’s enduring contribution to UWA’s sporting culture. It provides an inspiring environment for athletes, a welcoming home for supporters and a versatile venue for community celebration. More than just a sports building, it plays an essential role in shaping the social fabric of the precinct—inviting people in, bringing them together and strengthening the sense of pride shared across the UWA sporting community.

 

 

A Comprehensive Design Approach

Hunt Architects led the full architectural and interior design scope, encompassing master planning, concept and detailed design, documentation and contract administration. This holistic involvement allowed for a cohesive design outcome, resulting in a two-storey pavilion that seamlessly integrates modern sporting requirements with refined interior spaces, durable materials and a clear understanding of community needs. The building is purposefully designed to accommodate a wide variety of sports and activities while fostering an environment of excellence, collaboration and inclusivity.

 

Passive Sustainable Design

Strategic building orientation, the harnessing of natural light and well-considered shading strategies reduce energy consumption while ensuring comfort throughout the year. These measures ensure that the pavilion not only functions efficiently but also supports UWA’s broader commitment to environmentally responsible campus development.

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