A new public space is now complete at the corner of Kerr and Brunswick Streets in Fitzroy. This project is the first major initiative delivered as part of the Brunswick Street Streetscape Masterplan.
This project has gone through extensive consultation with the community. The seating space was featured as part of the Brunswick Street Masterplan community consultation in 2019 and 2020.
Between digital submissions and pop-ups around Brunswick Street, we received over 500 pieces of feedback for the Masterplan. More than 70% of people who participated indicated support for public space improvements at the Kerr Street corner due to the bustling pedestrian routes and busy cafes.
In August and September 2021, we asked our community for feedback on a draft concept design for the proposed seating space. After incorporating the feedback from over 100 residents into the new design, construction began earlier this year and was completed on Sunday 2 June.
The new public space provides a dynamic meeting place for the public with flexible seating options to maximise sociability and enhance street life. The seating platforms are constructed from bricks and natural stone that was manufactured and quarried in Victoria.
Building upon Brunswick Street’s rich history of incorporating ceramics in public spaces and architecture, contemporary ceramic artist Kate Jones was engaged to add moments of intricacy to the platforms through the application of experimental slips and glazes.
Overall, this project has delivered a new high-quality public space in a busy precinct which has little access to public and open space.
It offers an attractive and welcoming place for the public to enjoy, fostering social interaction and contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of Brunswick Street.
