A key strategic gesture of the initial concept design for Marsden Park was a structure that addresses and frames the playing fields, appealing to the desire for generous, wide open spaces and a connection to nature. A raw structure, straightforward in its expression yet ephemeral and playful in character, serves as an anchor point for this new local community.This structure aims to provide more than just shelter and utilitarian amenity, but also an element of joy and delight.

One might envision local community sports teams preparing for their next game under the dappled light of a living canopy. The pavilion offers the experience of getting changed under a tree while providing the privacy, security and amenity of a bespoke community building. We explored the idea of a structure that creates a unique spatial character internally, while becoming an abstract, recessive landscape element externally. A structure that has a civic quality, embodying a sense of shared community pride and contributing to the community’s local identity and sense of place.

Being identified as a building that defines “a public place with a beautiful and resolved architecture of uplifting civic gestures and fine details”. Marsden Park amenities provides toilets, change rooms, a kiosk and a shaded area for various community sports and recreation needs in Stockland’s master planned estate.

The project came through the masterplan developersStockland, and was an opportunity to do something more than simply pragmatic. Won through a design competition, the project called for a reimagining of the town centre. Unlike a lot of more established town centres, there aren’t many public buildings in the area. It doesn’t have a town hall, or a train station and the sports grounds and playgrounds are one of the few gathering places for the community. Thus, in the design of the Marsden Park amenities we aimed to match this sense of civic space and scale.

 Many locals have responded positively to the building, seeing it as a valuable focal point, especially for young people and families. Blacktown Mayor Tony Bleasdale say she was delighted to see it designed, built and then to finally come to life in his ward, and feels it’s had a truly transformative effect.

The amenities bring fresh energy and help create a sense of distinction and Identity, becoming a popular area for weekend sporting events and a civic community space.