Michelle Guglielmo Park

Project

Created as part of the Merri-bek City Council’s ongoing ‘A park close to home’ initiative, the run down site on bustling Sydney Rd in Brunswick was an opportunity to provide a much needed community gathering space across from the Brunswick Town Hall building.

Following community consultation, the park was named in honour of the late Michelle Guglielmo, former curator of the Counihan Gallery and a much loved member of the city’s dynamic arts and culture scene.

Design

Designed by GLAS Landscape Architects, the space was envisioned as a window into the ‘rocky country’ of Merri-bek. This nod to the past is brought bang up to date with a huge existing mural by Mike Makatron, as well as a large shelter at the rear of the park, which has an eye-catching roof designed by street artist Manda Lane.

Deliverables

After undertaking civil works on the formerly rundown site, Urbania set about bringing to life the project’s ‘rocky country’ brief. Extensive areas of timber decking were installed, which are sure to age beautifully over time and under foot.

An organic feel was enhanced throughout by the use of gorgeous natural stone for pathways and bleachers. Timber seating looks right at home in the park and corten steel edging and planters bring just a hint of industrial edge to the space.

Plantings were made with an eye on the future, to provide a naturalistic environment, including a number of mature trees as shade – providing canopies.