Bridge Road Childrens and Family Hub
Project Details
Architects
Brand Architects
Address
212 Bridge Road, Melton South, 3338
Submitter
Laurence Robinson
Cost
$4.68
Project Overview
Bridge Road CCC was conceived to meet the needs of Melton’s rapidly growing population. It offers a welcoming, natural environment for the provision of a range of community services. Ochre Landscape and Brand Architects worked in close collaboration to develop the landscape which focuses on “education through doing”.
A large portion of the time spent at kinder is outdoor play and therefore the long term success of the centre equally lies with the success of the building and the landscape. It was essential that the design blend with the natural environment, be sustainable, low maintenance and energy efficient.
The design of the landscape was divided into five distinct areas, the front community forecourt, the north and south licensed play area, the south entry and the fenced community play area. Each area had a different brief and requirements, and needed a diverse response in terms of tree selection, landscape features and appearance.
Playgrounds, recreational spaces and associated gardens within learning spaces are vital for the function and appearance of the community centre, but most importantly are critical for the experience of the children, staff and parents. The landscape design for the Bridge Road Community and Children’s Centre provides creative and inspirational external spaces combining the principles of both natural and structural play. The plant selection was very important to Melton Council, and included plants with interesting berries, seeds, flowers, foliage and bark. Mature trees were chosen that can provide shade rather than installing shade sails. The hard landscaping included textured paths that provide different sensory experiences, such as crazy paving, wooden boardwalks, bricks and exposed aggregate concrete. All the features of the play areas were created with the children in mind, for example, the artistic features such as colourful bird houses and tiny white buildings that the children can paint.
The teachers at the centre are loving the landscaped play areas. They love the natural play elements, the large number of semi-mature trees, veggie gardens and the densely planted slide hill. The children adore the water play elements and the way they connect to the sandpits. These two items have been used as the centre logo being printed on tee shirts and carry bags. The playground structure and planting offer many imaginative play opportunities.
The Bridge Road Children’s and Community Centre sets an exemplary benchmark for future childcare and community centres.