Building history

The public nature of the centre meant the exterior had to be welcoming and interesting. In terms of landscaping this included a formal environment in front and a relaxed, peaceful atmosphere alongside the waterway at the rear.

Landscape company Dig It Landscapes was contracted by Multiplex to complete all hard landscaping, planting and irrigation. It was designed by landscape architects from Desmond Brooks International to have a tropical feel, says Dig It director Greg Mann.

"Some of the plants are still small, but once they get to full size, they will have produced a very lush and tropical environment," he says.

The landscaping at the rear of the building meanders alongside the waterway, encouraging people to take time out, to sit and relax. Shade trees such as Ficus macrophyla, Harpulia pendula and Hibiscus tiliaceus create this look.

"The front has more impact as it is the first contact for visitors," Mann says. "There are lush walkways near the port-cochere, formal palm trees near the sunshades, and entry is through a canopy of lush foliage via the pedestrian bridge."

The company was also given the responsibility for the pouring of all the external concrete work, building the steps and installing stainless steel balustrades. It also contracted out the irrigation works to Waterforce Irrigation.

Mann says the shot-blast concrete, designed to form eye-catching patterns at the front entry, was of particular interest. Templates with cut-outs were laid over the concrete before being shot blast with machinery, a technique used many times in Dig It Landscape's 25-year history.

For further information, contact Dig It Landscapes, PO Box 2439, Fortitude Valley, Qld 4006, phone (03) 3257 3970, fax (03) 3257 3720 or visit the website: www.digit.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas