Landscape architecture firm ASPECT Studios have transformed the foreshore of Darling Harbour, one of Sydney’s most visited destinations.

Commissioned by the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority and Lend Lease, the precinct is now known as Darling Quarter and looks set to further increase the area’s attraction for local families, visitors and tourists.

The centrepiece of the area is a children’s playground spanning 4000sqm, with interactive play zones designed to best suit specific age groups. Stainless steel elements hark back to the area’s industrial roots.

The project team sourced elements from some of the best play spaces around the world, including German water play elements that have never before been seen in Australia.

As well as the playground, ASPECT Studios completed an upgrade of ground plane materials and provided new lighting, furniture and planting in the area. Sustainability was a key focus of the project – harvested rainwater irrigates the site and supplies to the water features. At night the area is lit up with low-energy lighting.

Darling Quarter officially opened to the public on 24 September and from the public response it has already received – particularly from those under the age of 12! – the precinct will be a vital part of Sydney social and cultural life, reinvigorating and bringing new energy to this landmark site.

ASPECT Studios will continue their transformative work on Sydney’s public spaces as they contribute to upgrades of Chinatown, Angel Place and Ash Street laneways in the CBD.

ASPECT Studios
aspect.net.au