Himmel used to elevate the CIT Woden atrium

The new Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) Woden campus is a major investment in the ACT’s education future and a landmark addition to the Woden Town Centre. Designed by Gray Puksand in partnership with Infrastructure Canberra, CIT and Lendlease, the building is intended to bring learning into the centre of community life while honouring the Ngunnawal Country. With 6,500 students expected to use the campus each year it needed to balance long-term durability with a calm, welcoming environment to support learning and collaboration. 

A key feature of the architectural approach was “Designing with Country” guided by Yerrabingin’s Christian Hampson. The team worked to integrate the building into its local landscape through material choices, colour palettes and spatial experiences. This is evident in the central atrium, which acts as a vertical journey from the earth to the sky, articulated through five light-filled levels of colour gradations that reflect the intricacy of the landscape – from muted, earthy tones at ground level to the lighter hues of the blue expanse above – while creating the perfect environment for learning. Materials therefore needed to be selected that fit into the natural, landscape-inspired vision.  

This ambitious project presented a trifecta of challenges: realising a precise architectural vision connected to Country, creating an effective learning environment and meeting stringent technical and sustainability requirements. 

While the atrium is striking in appearance, it also presented practical challenges. Its large volume, open circulation and constant activity meant acoustic performance was critical. Managing sound levels was fundamental to ensuring comfort and maintaining the building’s overall learning environment. At the same time, the ACT Government required all materials in the project to meet a 30-year design life, a significant leap from the industry-standard 10-year warranty, meaning every product needed proven longevity. Because the project was targeting a 6-Star Green Star rating, materials also had to carry recognised sustainability certifications and support the building’s broader environmental goals. 

To meet the project’s complex challenges, CSR Himmel delivered a holistic, high-performing solution that aligned with the ambitious design vision. 

Himmel Troldtekt wood-wool ceiling panels were chosen for the ceiling in the atrium. Their wood-wool composition naturally absorbs sound effectively, making them well suited to large, open areas with high foot traffic. In the atrium, this helps create a calmer, more comfortable environment that supports CIT’s focus on effective learning and collaboration. The acoustic performance is especially valuable beneath the oculus, where students gather informally, meet between classes or simply sit and reflect. 

Visually, the Troldtekt panels contribute to the warm, organic feel of the interior. Their textured surface and timber-based appearance blend well with the building’s colour gradation from earthy tones at ground level to sky-inspired shades as it rises. They complement the natural light entering from above and reinforce the design concept of moving from earth to sky. This understated visual connection helps the space feel grounded in its surroundings while maintaining a clean, contemporary character. 

Critical in meeting the acoustician’s requirements throughout the building and supporting a calm, focused learning environment, Martini Absorb and Martini Soffit panels were selected through close collaboration between Murray Hildebrand, CSR’s Specification Manager NSW Commercial, and the Gray Puksand team, and strategically integrated alongside Woven Image products for targeted noise absorption. 

Durability was a major consideration, and the Troldtekt panels easily meet the ACT’s demanding 30-year requirements. Their sustainability credentials were another important factor. As Gold Cradle to Cradle certified products made from timber sourced from certified renewable forests, they align with both the Green Star framework and the “Designing with Country” emphasis on responsible, long-term stewardship. In addition, the Martini acoustic products utilise thermally bonded polyester fibre derived from recycled plastic bottles, further strengthening the project’s commitment to environmentally responsible material selection. 

By improving acoustic comfort, being naturally inspired and delivering long-term environmental value, the combination of Himmel Troldtekt and Martini products along with the other CSR products used, help bring the architectural vision to life. They create a setting where students and visitors can gather in a calm environment, demonstrating how thoughtful material selection can enhance both functionality and cultural connection. 

CSR Products used:  

• Martini Absorb  
• Martini Soffit 
• Himmel Troldtekt Ceiling Panels
• Gyprock 13mm Plasterboard
• Gyprock Rigitone
• Rondo Wall Framing
• Cemintel Wallboard
• Bradford SoundScreen
• Woven Image Array 24mm
• Woven Image Pico Embossed Panel
• Woven Image EchoPanel® 12mm & 24mm
• Woven Image EchoPanel® Empire
• Woven Image Zen Embossed Panel