RE:CML (2024)

The design process for revitalising Melbourne’s Colonial Mutual Life Building began with a meticulous study of its architectural details and historical significance. The project aimed not to replicate but to reinterpret the building’s essence in a modern context. Initial stages involved extensive research into the building’s original structure and its relationship with the Mornington Peninsula, where the accompanying statue had been relocated before finding its current place at Melbourne University.

To meet the design brief effectively, the project prioritised creating a design that would stand out both aesthetically and culturally. This involved conceptualising innovative ways to integrate elements of the original structure and building’s spirit into a contemporary sculpture. Through sketches and prototypes, various materials and forms were explored, focusing on evoking a sense of historical continuity while being visually impactful.

In the development phase, the design evolved into a robust wire frame structure crafted from durable steel, strategically positioned on a 5m by 5m plinth as required by the brief. The positioning of local rocks within the wire mesh enhanced the sculpture’s visual dynamics, symbolically linking it to the nearby highway’s fast-paced environment. This juxtaposition aimed to capture the perpetual motion of modern urban life.

Attention to detail was evident in the project’s execution, from the choice of materials to the integration of historical remnants of the original building. The sculpture’s final placement at McClelland Sculpture Park ensured its permanence and accessibility to the public, fulfilling the brief’s requirement for both temporary display on the freeway and permanent installation at McClelland’s Sculpture Park.

In summary, the project exemplifies a professional design process through thorough research, innovative conceptualisation, and meticulous execution. By meeting and exceeding the design brief’s expectations, the project successfully honoured Melbourne’s architectural heritage while creating a contemporary landmark that engages with its historical and cultural context.

This project exemplifies good design across multiple criteria. Functionality is addressed through the sculpture’s dual purpose: as a visual homage to the demolished landmark and as a contemporary art installation. Its location on the Peninsula Link freeway ensures visibility to both local residents and travelers, enhancing public engagement with Melbourne’s cultural history.

Aesthetically, the design reinterprets historical elements into a modern context. This blend of old and new not only enhances the sculpture’s visual appeal but also integrates it harmoniously into its surroundings at McClelland Sculpture Park and allowing for audience interaction.

Safety and sustainability are paramount, with durable materials chosen for longevity and minimal maintenance. The sculpture’s construction and placement prioritise public safety and environmental impact, meeting modern standards while respecting the site’s natural beauty.

User experience is central to the design, offering viewers a dynamic interaction with its form and materials. The sculpture’s scale and placement invite exploration, encouraging visitors to engage from multiple perspectives—whether viewing from a distance on the freeway or up close in the park. The tactile engagement fosters a deeper appreciation of both the artwork and its historical narrative.

In setting a new benchmark for design excellence, this project demonstrates the transformative power of professional design in urban renewal and cultural preservation. By seamlessly blending art, history, and infrastructure, it not only enriches Victoria’s public spaces but also communicates the value of investing in thoughtful, well-executed design projects. Its innovative approach to reinterpreting architectural heritage ensures a lasting legacy that resonates nationally and internationally, showcasing Melbourne as a city committed to preserving its past while embracing its future. This project serves as a model for cities worldwide seeking to balance historical preservation with contemporary urban development, illustrating the enduring impact of visionary design in shaping vibrant, culturally rich urban landscapes.

The project addressed multiple challenges in an innovative, imaginative, and unique manner. It solved the problem of commemorating a demolished landmark while creating a new opportunity for public engagement and historical reflection.

The challenge of preserving the essence of a demolished building was met with a creative reinterpretation that blends history with modern design. Instead of a mere replication, the design abstracts and simplifies the original structure, capturing its spirit through a steel wire frame. This approach allows the sculpture to resonate with those familiar with the building while intriguing new audiences.

A ground-breaking feature of the project is the dynamic illusion of motion created by integrating rocks into the wire mesh. This design draws correlations to the repetitive use of gabion cages along highways, which can cause visual fatigue. By reinterpreting this concept, the design imbues it with new meaning and form. Additionally, the innovative arrangement of rocks partially ”stuck” within the wireframes simulates the perpetual motion of rocks being hurled at the installation, symbolising the ceaseless activity of the adjacent highway. This concept not only adds a unique visual dimension but also ties the sculpture contextually to its environment, enhancing its relevance and appeal.

The transition of the sculpture from Peninsula Link to McClelland Sculpture Park marks a significant evolution in both its form and function. Initially designed to captivate motorists with its dynamic presence, the relocation allows for more intimate and interactive engagement. In this new setting, the sculpture transforms into a living, evolving structure. The wire frame, once captured essence of the Colonial Mutual Life Building, now serves as a support for plant growth. Over time, these plants will intertwine with the steel framework, creating a seamless blend of art and nature. This organic integration fosters a deeper connection between the installation and its natural surroundings.

The completion of the project leaves a long-lasting and positive impact across social, environmental, and commercial domains. Socially, the sculpture serves as a bridge connecting the city’s historical past with its present, fostering community pride and engagement. By evoking memories of the demolished building and introducing new audiences to Melbourne’s architectural heritage, the installation promotes cultural continuity and education.

Environmentally, the project is a testament to sustainable design principles. The use of durable steel and local rocks adheres to circular economy practices by minimising waste and maximising material lifespan. The sculpture’s integration with its natural surroundings at McClelland Sculpture Park, where it will support plant growth, exemplifies regenerative design. This approach enhances biodiversity, promotes ecological balance, and demonstrates how art can harmonise with the environment.

From a commercial perspective, the sculpture enhances Victoria’s cultural tourism appeal. Positioned initially on Peninsula Link, it attracts the attention of motorists, drawing visitors to McClelland Sculpture Park and the surrounding areas. This increased traffic stimulates local businesses and contributes to the economy, showcasing how investment in public art can drive economic benefits.

By demonstrating the transformative potential of design, the project sets a benchmark for Victoria, showcasing how thoughtful urban interventions can enhance public spaces while preserving historical narratives. This elevates Victoria’s reputation as a hub of design innovation and creative culture, attracting attention nationally and internationally.

Ultimately, the project’s long-lasting impact extends beyond physical infrastructure to cultural enrichment, environmental stewardship, and economic vitality. It exemplifies how strategic investment in design can catalyze positive change, promoting sustainability and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. By celebrating Melbourne’s architectural legacy through contemporary design, the project reinforces Victoria’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage while embracing future-oriented urban development practices.

The project represents excellence in circular design and sustainable design principles. The choice of materials showcases a commitment to sustainability. The sculpture’s steel wire frame, chosen for its durability, ensures a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and maintenance. This durability is a key aspect of circular design, as it maximises the utility of materials over time, contributing to resource efficiency and economic sustainability.

The integration of local rocks from the highway area further underscores the project’s sustainable approach. By sourcing materials locally, the project minimises transportation emissions and energy consumption, aligning with principles of local sourcing and reducing the overall carbon footprint.

In its new setting at McClelland Sculpture Park, the sculpture transitions into a living structure that supports plant growth. This regenerative aspect enhances biodiversity and ecological balance within the park. The use of climbing plants, such as Parthenocissus, to integrate with the sculpture’s wire frame, creates a dynamic and evolving natural artwork. Over time, the sculpture will blend seamlessly with its environment, showcasing how art can actively contribute to ecological regeneration.

The project also embodies sustainable design through its minimal environmental impact during use and at the end of its life cycle. The robust construction and thoughtful material selection ensure that the sculpture remains a low-maintenance, long-lasting fixture. When its lifecycle eventually ends, the materials used can be recycled or repurposed, further reducing waste and supporting circular economy principles.

In summary, this project exemplifies excellence in circular design and sustainable principles by maximising material efficiency, promoting local sourcing, supporting ecological regeneration, and ensuring longevity with minimal environmental impact. It serves as a model for sustainable public art, demonstrating how design can harmonise with and enhance the natural environment while fulfilling cultural and social roles.