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The connection with the city was
accentuated by recognising such
primary existing pathways as
Bathurst and Liverpool Streets,
redesigning and upgrading the
existing pedestrian bridge link,
and breaking the building into two
parts to create a gateway between
Tumbalong Park and the city. The
city streams into Darling Harbour
through this 20 metres wide gap.
The city edge is strengthened and
clarified by the building form so
there is no mistaking where the
city ends.
Within the Darling Quarter
precinct, axes and pedestrian
pathways were defined and
assisted in the development of
the building form. Thus, the
second southern portion of
Commonwealth Bank Place echoes
the circular shape of the park. The
path around Tumbalong’s western
edge has been strengthened as a
treed boulevard. Pedestrians can
stroll past shops and food outlets,
there is also a new playground
for children replacing the earlier
Sega World playground as well
as a children’s theatre to add to
the fun. Sydney originally lacked
“
Peoples’ Promenades”, dignified
and protected areas set aside for
pedestrians. Martin Place is an
early instance of such a place, now
Darling Quarter, has picked up
and created a similar boulevard so
people can promenade.
Commonwealth Bank Place is a
very desirable building. Simply
put, this is an environment people
will want to spend time in. Work
will seem pleasurable in such
pleasing surroundings. Having
everything at your fingertips, not
being cooped up and imprisoned
in a stuffy air conditioned office in
work stations, being able to open a
window and feel fresh air on your
face, makes a huge difference to
how individuals feel about their
work surroundings. Being able to
control and adjust and reset how
much air, light, we are exposed to
is important. Not only does this
make for a happier more friendly
workplace, it will contribute, even
if in only a minor way, to making a
healthier planet.
A BETTER PLACE
A BETTER PLACE
