Challenge

Revitalise Canberra’s public spaces by creating modular furniture that not only enhances aesthetic appeal and functionality but also stimulates local businesses and encourages social connections. The installations needed to be versatile, sustainable, and capable of responding to the diverse needs of the community.

Solution

Adopting a place-led approach, we developed a modular system that prioritises sustainability and user experience.

Three locations were strategically chosen due to their high potential for transformation and mutual benefit for the surrounding businesses and community. We identified these areas as prime candidates for conversion into lingering spaces rather than mere walkthroughs, as they currently register significant foot traffic but are predominantly utilised for transient passage.

The design focused on ease of disassembly, repair, and recycling, ensuring long-term sustainability. Community feedback guided further refinements, enhancing inclusivity and usability. The project successfully increased dwell time, benefiting surrounding businesses and reinforcing a deeper sense of place and community.