The Australian Academy of Science's Shine Dome and its custom-designed furniture were created to reflect the inquiring and innovative nature of science. It was the first Canberra building to be added to the National Heritage List, for its historical and architectural significance.
A Canberra landmark since its construction in 1959, the Shine Dome has received numerous awards and is one of seven projects the Royal Australian Institute of Architects has nominated to the World Register of Significant Twentieth Century Architecture.
Over the decades, the Dome has captured imaginations and inspired the authorship of a number of memoirs. The book, ‘A big, bold, simple concept’, was commissioned for the 50th anniversary of the Dome's construction. It documents the design and construction of the Academy’s dome-shaped building in Canberra. The Academy's first executive secretary, Jack Deeble, spoke with Professor Frank Fenner in 1999 about the design and construction of the Dome.
Sir Otto Frankel, who was on both the design and building committees for the Dome, wrote a personal memoir in 1970. The Dome also features in Sir Otto's biographical memoir about the Dome's architect, Sir Roy Grounds.
The Shine Dome is available for hiring by small and large groups for private, corporate and public functions.
The Shine Dome was damaged in a severe hailstorm in January 2020. Significant works, including recladding of the copper roof, have restored our nationally heritage listed building and improved its longevity and energy efficiency.
To mark this occasion and to recognise the critical role scientists play, we ask that you celebrate science with us by dedicating a virtual copper roof tile to an Australian scientist who has made a significant contribution to science.
© 2024 Australian Academy of Science