Relevance for Geelong

Clearly, both elements have several benefits that might trigger a change in Market Square. On one hand, hybrid buildings would inject the diversity that is currently lacking in Central Geelong and not attractive as a locational choice parameter. At this point, the first question to be answered ahead is about how ‘diverse’ that ‘diversity’ should be? Maybe it is not only about creating a random ‘interesting’ variety of programme to be placed on the site but to think about what connections and implications the programme will have on Market Square. Should it be completely different and boost a ‘new image’ for the site or should it complement it? This is something that I should be aware of during my explorations. While the first option might be understood as an impostation -more than a real understanding of the context-, the second one questions if a new programme is the catalyst of the change.

Secondly, thinking urban design from a Biophilic design perspective is different from the business-as-usual approach already applied in Geelong. Planning aspires, at a certain point, the connection with nature but it is limited only to green open spaces, like the Green Spine in Central Geelong. However, during my research, I discovered that it is even more valuable for that connection with nature to be permanent, every moment of our days. So, how to achieve a typology that enables people living, working or visiting Market Square to be in permanent contact with nature? Is it only through greening as much as possible or are there any other strategies to achieve that?

Aerial view of Geelong. Source: Victoria State Government. Revitalising Central Geelong Action Plan