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‘The Bourke Street Exchange’ is a dynamic, vibrant space for designers, computer scientists, engineers and others alike. A space for fostering connections between professionals and communities, it celebrates innovation and creativity. Additionally, our proposed design aims to enhance walkability within Waterloo; a human-centred design that includes recreational rest spaces and honours the cultural significance of the land, addressing the disconnect between modern urbanisation and the Indigenous recognition of Country. Our design is a space that facilitates the flow and exchange of ideas, perspectives and innovations.
Urban walkability
Waterloo strives to become a highly walkable suburb through an ambitious urban renewal project, ensuring that all public transport options are within a 10-minute walk radius. However, the area remains largely “un-walkable,” with pedestrians having to navigate dense 4-5 lane traffic without tree coverage, making a 10-minute walk challenging. Through landscaping, our site becomes a desirable space to traverse, withdrawn from the busy and bustling roads of Waterloo.
Technology hub
Waterloo has a high percentage of designers, computer scientists and engineers. With many of these jobs being remote, our project provides an alternative workspace away from home. It fosters connections between people working in different disciplines. Hence, our building becomes a melting pot of ideas and innovative thinking. Various makerspaces, coworking spaces and private working spaces cater for different working styles and needs. Exhibition spaces offer unique opportunities for users to showcase technology, designs and architecture to the public.
Recreational rest spaces
The opportunity to pause is the missing piece to making Waterloo the next urban hot spot. Our project integrates recreational rest spaces to enhance walkability and create a more human-centred environment. These spaces would help to break up the dense urban fabric, offering moments of respite and connection to nature, which are crucial in an area undergoing rapid development.
