Jury citation
This project has transformed a utilitarian parks depot into an engaging public building. Located in Melbourne’s Albert Park, the building is organized around a central courtyard, providing a welcoming orientation space for park visitors while accommodating depot functions behind. Airy and light-filled office spaces on the level above enjoy a green outlook from every window.
A stacked program has enabled a minimal-footprint building that delivers high amenity and low impact. The exposed concrete and timber structure is lean, yet carefully composed to maximum effect, with upturned perimeter beams doubling as window seats internally and planters on the outside face. With the adept integration of greenery to shade, cool and screen spaces, structures and windows, the exterior is further animated and effortlessly settles the building into its parkland setting.
Project credits
Architects Harrison and White with Archier; Builder Building Engineering; Project manager Accuraco; Engineer Wood and Grieve; Landscape consultant Openwork; Building surveyor Metro; ESD consultant Hip V. Hype
Parks Victoria Albert Park Office and Depot is located in Albert Park, Victoria, on the land of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nation.
Source
Award
Published online: 5 Nov 2020
Words:
ArchitectureAU Editorial
Images:
Peter Bennetts
Issue
Architecture Australia, November 2020
