The Port Office

Category: Landscape

Owner: Port of Brisbane Corporation
Location: Port of Brisbane QLD
Landscape Architect: John Mongard Landscape Architects
Structural Engineer: Intelara
Contractor: Design Landscapes, Penfolds Landscapes, Adco

Brick manufacturer: Austral Bricks
Product: Riviera GenX Freedom in Alassio, Modena and Pescara

Project description:

The Port Office landscape and plaza takes its inspiration from the ripple patterns of water. This is an indirect reference to the port and its setting and reflected in the building form.

The building frontage is designed as a town square or piazza, a hard-paved forecourt which can accommodate small or large groups. The piazza is paved in three bold concentric bands of clay pavers that connect the emerging port town from its main pedestrian spine to the foyer of the Port headquarters.

The Greenstar rating achieved is the highest for a large commercial project in Queensland. Locally-made clay paving was utilised for its low carbon footprint and to provide warmth and civic quality at the intersection of pedestrian movement and gathering spaces. The pattern was specifically detailed to minimise joints and gaps in the difficult circular laying arrangement.

Frontage parking is in a paved shared zone. Vehicles are allowed to traverse the piazza but not dominate. There are no kerb barriers within the project. The pavements and bollards encourage slow vehicle passage and allow the piazza to be transformed into an events space. The precinct is completely circled by stone-lined drainage swales channelling and storing water for plant irrigation.