material palette

The existing conditions of the site is dominated by concrete, asphalt and corten steel, which adds a very cold and harsh quality to the space. When strong shadows are casted over the site, the heavy aesthetic is emphasised even more. Thus, there is opportunity to introduce contrasting elements like timber, light pigmented surface and planting to balance out the feeling of heaviness and add a quality of lightness to the space. At the same time, the integration of materials such as corten steel and grey blustone pavers can also be used to bring a sense of unity with the rest of the existing context.

corten steel bluestone paved steps white pigmented concrete hardwood timber

Corten steel is uniquely selfrusting, giving it a deep orange appearance. It is weather and rain resistant and needs very little maintenance once installed. It is also high strength, weldable structural steel which makes it ideal to form part of the supporting wall structure. At the same time it can balance the Corten sculpture on the facade on the northern side of Sidney Meyer. It does not require corrosion protective treatment, and although very long lasting, might need to be replaced at some stage for aesthetic purposes. Bluestone paving is integral to the character of Melbourne CBD, it signifies a change in the ground plane where people are able to rest and reflect. Highly durable and suited to areas susceptible to changing weather conditions. The combination of dark blue, grey and charcoal hues creates a minimalist feel in the stone and gives a sleek contemporary finish without hindering surrounding garden environments. The polished and white surface of white pigmented concrete creates a stark constrast from the existinig asphalt of the site, making wayfinding easy and directing movement in and around the site. It gives a sleek look, suitable for institutional and professional settings. Concrete pavers will rarely crack, shift or settle under normal foot or vehicle traffic, making them long lasting. They are also very easy to remove and replace.

Timber offers and additional quality of warmth to the site to contrast with the cold existing facade of Sidney Meyer. It invites passing pedestrians to site and take a moment. Hardwood is very easy to maintain and clean and extremely durable. It also comes in a variety of colours which can complement the surrounding greenery and the deep orange of corten steel.