MIPAC: BRUNSWICK CIVIC & CULTURAL PRECINCT_

The Brunswick Civic and Cultural Precinct is centred around the MIPAC forecourt and Sydney Road intersection is a catalyst for performance, exhibition and cultural expression for the Brunswick community.  The aim of the precinct is Exhibition, Performance and Arts (EPA) to encourage community conversation and to link the site with the wider Merri-bek community, further shaping cultural ideas and the identity of Brunswick.

Layers of materials draw on the richness of many local cultures in Brunswick with diversions along Sydney Road, Dawson Street and Glenlyon Road creating inviting habitable places to rest and socialise. Low walls deflect movement and invite a playful interaction; always revealing interesting and meaningful moments.  The realignment of the linear movement, previously dominated by various modes of transport, allows unlimited and undefined opportunities for performance and expression. Small corner spaces for busking, slightly elevated platforms for groups of musicians or actors with a backdrop of local culture and history.

Following a broad-reaching community engagement process, the community and stakeholders the activity center upgrades created interactive public realm that allows the community to explore the process and intent of exhibited works. The EPA space, makers space, is continually evolving with the community the next generations.  All elements of the design have integrated interpretation and information’s overlays, and the materiality is specific to the Brunswick history and identity. Key areas have been developed as demonstration projects with informative WSUD elements and horticultural strategies.