Deakin University Waurn Ponds Library

Here the library forecourt is transformed from a transitional space to a social and collegiate meeting place. This was achieved by the use of low walls, water and broad walkways edged with informal planting.  It forms an abstracted gully and creek, with ponds connected by a stepped rill. The existing large trees provide a framework and a scaling device that help to sit the walls of the buildings into the landscape.

A small café terrace is nestled amongst the tree trunks. Additional planting around it provides both a sense of intimacy and also prospect out through the gully to the open space of the western square of the central campus. The planting design was consistent with the riparian nature of the Waurn Ponds area with additional form plants to provide interest at ground level.

Architect: Six Degrees Architects