Won in open international competition, the National Portrait Gallery will be the most significant new national institution to be constructed in the Parliamentary Triangle for almost 20 years. Johnson Pilton Walker’s elegant planning and formal expression for the building conveys the diversity, creativity and openness of the Australian character.

The design draws inspiration from Canberra’s climate and unique natural light, the essential character of many Australian rural structures, the institution’s art collection and purpose: to increase the understanding of the Australian people – their identity, history, creativity and culture – through portraiture.

The building embraces its setting, and links the visitor’s experience of the gallery spaces to the Australian landscape, with views into the landscape from transition spaces and controlled natural light illuminating the galleries.