The Centre integrates with the public domain, using a grand entry staircase as a social threshold. Native landscaping softens the edges, creating a seamless transition between architecture and natural surroundings.

The Centre unfolds across four levels, progressing from public gathering and storytelling spaces to galleries and learning areas, and staff offices, creating a journey into Gadigal knowledge.

The main staircase acts as a physical and symbolic threshold, guiding visitors through levels that shift from public gathering to reflective learning spaces, each offering deeper engagement with Gadigal knowledge.

The Gadigal Centre of Excellence promotes adaptable and inclusive learning, using flexible, interchangeable spaces that shift between seminars, workshops and consultations.

Materiality guides the project, with rammed earth grounding the Centre in Land Country, shell terrazzo honouring Water Country, and timber referencing the Nawi, reinforcing cultural memory and connection to place.