Construction-ready detailed designs for the redevelopment of Melbourne’s iconic St Kilda Pier have been released, following further refinement on schematic designs from 2020.
Jackson Clements Burrows Architects, working with Site Office Landscape Architects and specialist port and coastal engineers AW Maritime, have produced a design that aims to respectfully considers the heritage aspects of the existing pier while enhancing the visitor experience.
The redevelopment will include a new pier and boat landing, communal seating terrace and pavilion, Little Penguin viewing boardwalk and retention of the “much-loved” heritage kiosk.
“The new community pavilion offers an arrival point and gateway to the Little Penguin platform, with its subtle curves referencing the Kiosk architecture,” the architects say of the project.
St Kilda Pier redevelopment by Jackson Clements Burrows Architects, with Site Office Landscape Architects and AW Maritime.
“Materials have been carefully considered for purpose and longevity, while integrating with the heritage elements. Timber offers warmth and comfort for sitting and reclining, mesh is used at the platform so visitors can almost feel the action underfoot as waves crash against rocks, while concrete enables a more tactile experience for climbing.”
In response to climate change, the design has been conceived to be resilient to rising sea levels, imperceptibly rising as it projects out into the bay. The wave wall too has been designed in response to wave and climate change modelling.
Changes to the proposal since the last set of designs were released include use of timber for the penguin viewing platform to provide a more natural feel; inclusion of a beach access ramp to allow access for visitors and council’s beach cleaning tractor; and energy-efficient lighting for safe public access in the evenings.
The redevelopment is being overseen by Parks Victoria with the Department of Transport. The state government has committed $50 million to the project. Construction is expected to start later in 2021 with completion expected in 2023.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
