CONCEPT

The Problem

Fire Station Carpark is located in the East end of Perth which has few green public open spaces. The vicinity of the site is dull, lifeless and thus uncomfortable to be around. The site itself is utilized as an open air carpark. Glaring sunlight in the summer and strong winds in the winter makes the site and uninviting area to beat all year round. Being a large asphalt area with low biodiversity, it contributes greatly to the Urban Heat Island.

Key Moves

The site is in a prime location for a public open space, being adjacent to the Royal Perth Hospital and within walking distance of numerous hotels, offices and commercial areas.

This design aims to recreate Fire Station Carpark as the distinct premier public open space of the East End of the City of Perth through facilitating nightlife and daytime activity. By increasing street interaction and introducing spaces that can be used by the variety of users, the increase in activity will also help to improve safety through passive surveillance. Some of these spaces will also have direct views of the surrounding heritage buildings.

Urban Revival Materials

Passage as Place

The site is currently a carpark that is also used as a thoroughfare between Hay Street and Murray Street but it also has the opportunity to be more than a passage.

This design takes inspiration from the arcades in the city which not only act as passage but also as place.

Through the introduction of aesthethic hangout spaces and providing a reason for users to stay, this design aims to create a public open space that is attractive and inviting to users, while still acting as the thoroughfare it is now.

Creating a reason to stay

- Providing accessible hangout areas

- Creating spaces that allow users to rest and relax at

Providing users with reasons to visit and stay at the site such as spaces to have lunch at during the day.

Precedents

Revitalizing the area

- Activating the edges by increasing interaction along the streets

- Increasing safety through passive surveillance

Boosting the “life” of the place by increasing the safety of the area and activating the edges.

Boosting day/night activity

- Having food and beverage services on site with al fresco dining spaces

- Creating attractive nightime spaces through lighting

Boosting daytime activity and nightlife through the introduction of bars, cafes and restaurants with al fresco dining spaces on site.

Korenmarkt

The design is located in the centre of a retail hub and aims to develop the plaza into a vibrant urban space. It utilises stepped seatings and large open spaces.

This project is in the most urban part of town, surrounded by bars, cafes and restaurants. The design enhances the services around them by providing comfortable and safe spaces.

This project is located in the heart of its shops and public amenities. The regeneration of this public space is the cornerstone of the town’s revival. The line of trees and native planting gives this place its own identity.