Ngunnawal/Ngambri Peoples
ACT
Denman Prospect Village playground and amenities provide a recreational nucleus for Northwest Canberra’s newly developed suburb Denman Prospect. Spiire and Carter Williamson have worked in collaboration with Capital Estate Developments to create public infrastructure that fosters community and encourages playful cognitive and kinaesthetic learning.
Nestled in Denman Prospect Village Playground, between Mount Stromlo Observatory and an emblematic green Clem Cumming’s bus stop. The charming and spacious amenities intertwine the area’s cultural and design history. Comprised of two coalescing forms curving in organic conversation with one another, an up-curved structure waves a welcoming hand across the landscape, marking a safety point and shelter.
The entirely wheelchair accessible site provides various inclusive and environmentally friendly modes of transport to the local neighbourhood and beyond. Prioritising accessibility in turn prioritises community, recognising and catering for different needs is a social responsibility within architecture, to develop spaces that are functional and non-discriminatory.
The features and detailing in the Denman Prospect amenities building are bold and exceptional.
The brief was an amenities facility that was designed with purpose and didn’t feel oppressive. The facilities were part of the first stage of the Denman Playground, and importantly had to speak to the ultimate completion of the park.
Access, visibility, natural light, ventilation and functionality constructed the design brief and objectives. We loved how the design was inspired by Clem Cumming’s iconic Canberra bus stops and entwines the astronomy theme of the surrounding park.
The ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñ acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
