Molonglo

Designed by Chile-based practice Pezo von Ellrichshausen, LESS consists of 36 concrete columns and a circular ramp that leads up to a viewing platform.

Located at Dairy Road, Canberra, LESS is populated with 8,500 individual plants of over 50 different plant species, many of which are endemic to this area. A small, continuous and shallow stream runs through and down the structure’s columns, pooling, running and returning. As the plants grow, the site will evolve from its recent concrete and industrial history to a botanical landscape that closer resembles its pre-colonial ancestor. This landscape will change with each season, of which there are six according to the local Ngunnawal calendar, slowly becoming more immersive and, perhaps one day, equal to the structure that supports it.

Other than the intention for LESS to be a non-commercial public place, its uses are undefined. People are welcome to come and activate it as they see fit. Equally as important as the biological and social evolutions at the site; LESS hopes to encourage contemplation. Personal contemplation is stimulated by the running water, the sound of its lapping and of the wind blowing through the columns.