Picnic Point Parklands
Sculptural shelters enhance public open space
Location Toowoomba, QLD (Giabul/Jarowair Country)
Client Toowoomba Regional Council
Value $2.1 million
Status Concept Design Completed
Project Type Tourism & Culture
As an upgrade to Toowoomba Council’s premium park precinct, Open was engaged alongside landscape architects Aspect Studios to create new shelters, a lookout and amenities block, as well as to refurbish existing shelters and amenities.
The new sculptural shelters blend into the landscape, taking inspiration from the clouds and mists which often envelop the escarpment. Mimicking a cloud, the roof forms are supported by elegant poles that mirror the trunks of the parkland trees. Woven mesh screens offer protection from wind and rain, whilst preserving visual permeability, and low bluestone walls provide integrated seating. The new amenities block adopts similar materials and forms.
Project benefits
Open's designs for the new and upgraded facilities give new life and distinctive identity to the parklands, improving the experience for the community and encouraging visitation. Improving amenity and safety, the designs use sympathetic materials that will be durable and vandal resistant and deliver value to the Council over time through longevity and reduced maintenance.
