DARLINGTON COMMUNITY GARDEN SHELTER

Space to connect, participate and enjoy.

The wider context: 

The site is located in the lower area of the Darlington Village next to the oval and Darlington Pavilion and is part of the larger context of the community master plan containing a skate park,  pump track, and the community garden. The recently built arbor forms a strong backbone of the overall concept and surrounding trees provide a beautiful backdrop to the overall development. The west side of the site contains a seasonal creek and drainage system that will provide an opportunity for nature-inspired play areas and walkways.

What is it 

As part of our Pro Bono Service, we have offered our assistance in developing a strategy for placement of the Wagon on the site and design of the Shelter structures to protect the wagon and provide the necessary shading for the communal areas.

The concept of light and translucent organic forms has been influenced by surrounding trees and as a strategy to balance the contrast of the steel arbor structure and concreted skate park area. Fitted under the shades are lights that will be interactive. They will be used to create a mood-setting environment for each and any occasion and provide a safer space for community use. 

Challenge and opportunity

The strategy to place the wagon at the same level as the paving has eliminated the need for ramps and balustrades and provided greater accessibility and inclusion. 

The level difference of the lowered area on the west side of the development has also provided an opportunity to use this for strategic placement of the lower platform for the amphitheater type of use for presentations, talks and performances and negating the need for additional structures.