Sydney Street Shops
This project demonstrates what can be achieved on a small budget when landscape architects are brought to the design process. Sprout Landscape Architecture have updated a hot and stark outer suburban retail strip, transforming it into a social space and thoroughfare that respects and builds on the street’s local charm and offers an invitation to linger. In addition to addressing functional site issues, the design elevates the strip’s profile and imbues it with an updated identity.
The project introduces a series of small interventions into the sidewalk that creatively tackle drainage, circulation, urban heat island effect issues while enhancing the area’s local character. The multifunctionality of the design elements reflect the limited budget and range of users with bollards double as wayfinding devices and bike lock-ups, while garden walls guide stormwater runoff and provide informal seating. A process of consulting with local stakeholders, including local businesses and property owners, has encouraged a sense of ownership within the community of the updated street.
Sydney Street Shops demonstrates how small, well-considered and carefully executed design interventions can have significant outcomes. The jury commends the project for its skilful handling of a complex set of site issues and balancing of the diversity of stakeholder needs and desires.
PROJECT NAME: SYDNEY STREET SHOPS
AWARD CATEGORY: SMALL PROJECTS
AWARDS:
2019 NSW LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE AWARD