Revitalisation of Historic Town Centre
APRIL 2020
MODE has delivered a much-needed revitalisation to the town centre of Boonah, collaborating with Scenic Rim Regional Council (SRRC) to provide a long-term investment in the facilities and infrastructure for the community.
As part of Council’s ‘Vibrant and Active Towns and Villages’ initiative (VATV), improving accessibility and congestion were two key deliverables explored through innovative design solutions. MODE identified a variety of existing problems including poor circulation, steep grades and a lack of car parking which resulted in the re-design of a large portion of the Boonah Administration Building forecourt and the underutilised adjoining land.
The forecourt has been designed for the use and enjoyment of the local community members and visitors alike. The broad verandah at the entry to the Administration Building overlooks a well shaded green space with bespoke seating creating a place to stop, meet, rest and enjoy the amenities. To alleviate congestion, an additional 53 car parks have been provided, connecting to the forecourt via a secondary courtyard and a new covered pedestrian walkway, replacing the existing non-compliant corridor and ramp network.
“This project is significant for the Boonah township as a collaboration between the Scenic Rim Regional Council, the community, local artists, surrounding businesses, trades and suppliers. The new facilities will serve them for decades to come. Working with regional towns, councils and communities is something that we really enjoy and excel in here at MODE. The diverse relationships between the history, culture, community and environment create a strong framework to design within and it was honour to again work with Council to deliver this project.” – Sean Cherry, Senior Landscape Architect, MODE
Local artists provided artwork as part of the VATV which capture and relay stories about Boonah’s indigenous, agricultural and ecological past, present and future. These form part of the wider heritage and public arts trails throughout the High Street precinct with the aim of creating visual connections around the town centre. MODE also worked with Council and artist Teenie Wilton to interpret the story of the Warrajum of the Boonah Waterholes into a laser-cut story board along the central laneway.
MODE drew on their multidisciplinary experience as Landscape Architects, Architects, Interior and Graphic Designers to deliver this project for Council. The revitalised spaces have already been well received by the local community and the new facilities will serve them for decades to come, providing a sense of place and instilling community ownership and pride.
Read more here https://www.modedesigncorp.com/portfolio/boonah-town-centre