= International House =

One of the most attractive physical features of International House is undoubtedly the courtyard with its pool and fountain. It has been improved considerably over the years since it was first constructed in 1968 with its vines, seating and general open air ambience. It was further graced in 1993 with the bronze sculpture "Flamenco" by Inge King, one of Australia's leading sculptors. This acquisition for the 25th year anniversary celebration was made possible by the generous support of the U-Committee of the University, which had also funded the initial furnishing of the house.

The Foundation Stone of International House was laid on 13th February 1965 and the first stage of the building was completed by 14th June 1968, ready for occupation by 104 residents. Mr Joa Van der Steen, the University Architect, was in charge of the design which included the courtyard with a pool.

According to Professor Al Willis, the first Warden, "the pool was just a shallow hole at the beginning. Then we added some big rocks which I think Joe chose. Apart from their natural appeal they were supposed to provide hiding for the goldfish against the kookaburras. But the kooks always won out, and we had to be content with water plants".

It was during stage 2 of the construction of the house that occurred in 1979 that a major refurbishment of the courtyard took place. At that time the Casuarina trees on the west side of the courtyard were about 4 metres high but with the complete enclosure of the courtyard by the addition of room for 48 beds they grew up rapidly to capture more light. The six casuarinas or she-oaks now tower above the three stories of the house and contribute only a view of the trunks and fallen leaves to the courtyard. The residents on upper floors see more of the foliage as it waves with the wind. It is probably time for their removal and replacement with a more colourful contribution to the courtyard.

Mr Bruce Smith, an architect and Member of the Company since 1969, Director on the Board on UNSW International House Ltd since 1973 and Chairman 1982-95, was responsible for the redesign of the courtyard. The walkways were tiled, pergolas constructed, with walls and small palms and ferns added. Wisteria vines now grow around the poles and across wire supports to give a protective cover during the hot summer days. Yet in winter when the vines lose their leaves there is light and sunshine illuminating the courtyard. In fine weather the courtyard is a wonderful place for coffee, conversation and meals. Other changes, painting of beams, timber panelling and improved lighting were also made at this time, thanks to the efforts of Bruce Smith and Professor Jack Ratcliffe, who served as second Warden for twenty two years, from 1972-93.

To quote Professor Willis "The real beautifications of the courtyard began in Jack's time, and I've always regarded it as one of the best of the many contributions that Bruce Smith made to the House". He is conscious here of the fact that Bruce, a member of the Parramatta Rotary Club, played a prominent part in the raising of $200,000 in funds by Rotary, to be matched by similar amounts by both Federal and State Governments, to enable International Houses to be built at the Universities of Sydney and New South Wales on land provided by the Universities.

Improvements to the courtyard and its surrounding rooms are continuing thanks to the Master, Dr Bob Lundy and his wife Susan, who are also resident in the House. The kookaburras disappeared with the enclosure of the courtyard and there is now a fine collection of colourful carp to add to the beauty of the pool, fountain and sculpture.

Emeritus Professor E.O.P. Thompson
Chairman of the Board of Directors
International House Limited
1977