Comfort, safety, multifunctionality: the ingredients of a thriving civic space
A successful, modern and functional civic space requires balance; the balance of function and comfort, multifunctionality and intimacy, safety and practicality. The Dandenong Municipal Building and Civic Square strikes this balance to meet the needs of the community and the amenity of the council services. Marked with splashes of colour and an urban park feel, the Civic Square and Municipal Building make a welcoming and intimate precinct. The design is the outcome of a series of detailed analytical studies that focused on the appropriate levels and arrival points into the square. The level of the Civic Square is set to coincide with the first level of the Council Offices building, allowing level access to the square from the street. The levels throughout the design create diverse and distinct spaces, including room for retail, large events, cafes and a micro plaza. To create a thriving civic precinct we designed the Civic Square to link to the railway and undertook roadwork nearby to slow traffic. Diverse seating and gathering opportunities embed the Civic Square in the function of the city. It serves many cultures who value the opportunity to sit in larger groups and socialise in a truly urban setting.
