Blacktown Exercise, Sports & Technology (BEST) Hub
Strong leadership and local understanding in Melbourne
Brenton’s recent appointment in Melbourne was a logical next step in the expansion of Landscape Architecture at Architectus, says Esther.
With experience in both multi-disciplinary and urban design practices, he excels at working with stakeholders to understand and articulate their needs and aspirations. The result: aligned and achievable concepts, captured beautifully from the largest scale to the smallest detail.
“We’re expecting so much more from our open and green spaces, and we often need to balance competing needs,” says Brenton.
“That means the best landscape architects are also great collaborators.”
“As designers, we have a responsibility to identify common ground – so we can create landscapes that work on multiple levels, for multiple groups.”
Over the coming year, the Melbourne team will be focusing on integrated public spaces for a range of project types, including new affordable housing and Build-to-Rent developments where landscapes can play a vital role in community building.
Brenton also has his eye on strategic work around Victoria’s foreshores and waterways, where he sees great opportunities to make a positive, long-term impact.
“Landscape architecture goes beyond green infrastructure,” he says. “It connects natural systems, the climate, communities, and the built environment to make our cities healthier, happier and more equitable places to live.”
Pemulwuy Public Domain, Redfern, Sydney
Why landscape matters – and our role in it
Esther is seeing a positive shift in mindsets about the value of our landscapes, including through her involvement in state and local government panels on design excellence and sustainability in NSW.
“So much commentary is about the public domain – the contribution landscape makes to new developments, for example,” she says. “Local governments are really advocating for those spaces too.”
“It supports our view that landscape should be considered – and experts involved – from the earliest stages of a project.”
She points out that early involvement and long-term thinking from Landscape Architects is leading to more adaptable, inclusive spaces too. That includes the move to more multi-use school infrastructure the community can access evenings and weekends, for example.
“We know how much landscape matters, and so do our clients and policy makers,” Esther concludes. “We’re excited to work with them to create better places for the future.”
