When there is no defined boundary, a campus can open up and connect itself to the urban space.
Chunyan Lim,
Second-year Master of Architecture student at the University of Sydney
How can city campuses become part of the city and not just in the city?
Openness and permeability are the key to integrating city campuses into the urban fabric. This is something I realised in the course of my studies at the University of Sydney. In my personal experience, USYD is a great example of how a city campus can be interwoven with city life. Coming from the direction of Redfern Station on my first visit, I was greeted by a row of bamboo trees that led me to Cadigal Green. I didn’t even realise I’d reached the campus until Google Maps informed me.
When there is no defined boundary, a campus can open up and connect itself to the urban space. It struck me that Cadigal Green is not simply part of the campus but more like a public space that serves students, staff and the neighbouring community. The huge lawn area slopes towards the Old School Building, which acts as the focal point.
It has been fascinating to observe the multiple uses of this green space. In the morning, the wide promenade becomes a shortcut for those commuting to City Road or Redfern Station. In the afternoon, the lawn and S-shaped benches are a favourite lunchtime spot for both students and staff. In the evening, you see locals walking their pets, kids running around, and friends relaxing and chit-chatting. On weekends, there are family barbecues. The most exciting time is summer break, when outdoor film screenings are held in the evenings with beanbags on the lawn.
Cadigal Green is surrounded by a gym, library, café and even a bubble tea shop, all of which help bring liveliness to the area. It’s my favourite spot to relax after a workout at the gym. By opening up the campus and increasing its permeability to the public, there’s more opportunity for creative use. This not only merges the campus with the city but also enriches campus life beyond just study.
Cadigal Green, USYD
by Chunyan Lim
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