In a monumental announcement, AKIN has emerged victorious in the highly anticipated Barangaroo Harbour Park Design Competition. The project, set to revamp a central waterfront location in Sydney, Australia, is poised to reshape the landscape with a visionary approach that seamlessly weaves together Indigenous wisdom, landscape architecture, regenerative design, and public art.
The winning team, a collective of First Nations-led entities and Sydney-based experts, including Yerrabingin, Architectus, Flying Fish Blue, Jacob Nash Design, Studio Chris Fox, and Arup as engineering consultants, is set to embark on a transformative journey that will encompass 1.85 hectares of land in Central Barangaroo Harbour Park.
© AKIN
“For our community, this space holds a significance beyond just being a park. It’s a location where we come together to honor our rich heritage, connect with the land’s history, and envision our shared future. Our architectural plan represents a fresh beginning that’s linked to the oldest narratives, etched in Sydney’s sandstone. It encapsulates the tale of the land and its inhabitants.” Remarks Christian Hampson, Yerrabingin founder and CEO.
The New Barangaroo Harbour Park’s Proposal
The heart of AKIN’s proposal for the Barangaroo Harbour Park rests in a deep understanding of the land’s history, which spans over 7000 years, dating back to its significance for the Gadigal peoples, who used it for a myriad of purposes, including hunting, fishing, and gathering. The mission of the design is to rejuvenate this historical connection and foster a space that radiates reconciliation, renewal, and unity.
Integral to AKIN’s vision is the rejuvenation of ecological systems. Through the meticulous selection of native plants and tree species such as Sydney Red Gum, Casuarina, and Cabbage Tree Palm, the Barangaroo Harbour Park is set to attract a diverse range of fauna, bolstering the local ecosystem. The design’s ingenious incorporation of water as a central element ensures sustainable runoff management, filtering it through the landscape to be returned to the Harbour, harmonizing nature and function.
© AKIN
The design also stands as a testament to Indigenous knowledge systems, showcasing large-scale public artworks called “vessels.” These vessels serve as visual conduits that convey the essence of nature’s elements with profound importance in Indigenous cultures. The water vessel, for instance, establishes a poignant connection with the Harbour, offering a space for ceremonies and gatherings while framing captivating views of Me-Mel Island, a cultural landmark for Traditional Custodians. The wind vessel resonates with the gusts that sweep into Barangaroo, sharing stories and songs with park visitors, while the moon vessel captures the celestial ballet across the sky.
© AKIN
Beyond the cultural and ecological aspects, the Barangaroo Harbour Park’s practicality is not overlooked. With room for up to 6,000 individuals, the design features meandering pathways, tranquil resting spaces, kiosks, and additional amenities, all contributing to a multifaceted experience.
The significance of this venture stretches beyond the realm of a mere park; it represents an ode to the enduring Indigenous culture and a harmonious coexistence with the land, embracing the past, present, and future. As AKIN commences this ambitious endeavor, it promises to etch a new chapter into the storied sandstone of Sydney, celebrating the entwined narrative of the land and its people.
