The WA Museum Boola Bardip formally opened on 21 November 2020 in the Perth Cultural Centre, the State’s premier cultural hub which houses its scientific and cultural collections.

The name ‘Boola Bardip’ pays homage to the local First Nations people’s history and deep connection to their country. In Whadjuk Nyoongar, it means ‘many stories,’ reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the land where the museum stands.

BG&E provided structural and civil engineering services for this important building where stories are shared. The dramatic design links contemporary architecture with the historic and heritage listed buildings, creating a visual landmark for the State.

Column free gallery spaces are elevated 15 metres above ground over clear external pedestrian areas of 40 metres by 50 metres, and over the top of an existing heritage building, requiring a long span and cantilevering structure.

Project details

• Gallery floors were designed for total imposed loads of 14.5 kilopascals and 120 kilonewtons concentrated loads with stringent deflection and vibration acceptance criteria.
• Gallery floors comprise composite steel floors spanning 20 metres on two, two storey high fabricated structural steel trusses. These trusses are located within wall lines and vary in depth – between seven metres and 15 metres.
• The trusses span up to 45 metres with a 17 metre cantilever where the new building is located over the existing heritage building.
• To minimise overall steel tonnage, high strength 450 grade steel plate was used in the trusses.
• Columns are a mix of reinforced concrete and composite steel and concrete.