Cape Barren Island Multi-Purpose Complex

Cape Barren Island Multi-Purpose Complex

Cape Barren Islanders Community Inc.

Inspiration

True placemaking draws inspiration from the community and generates artful design, sustainable environmental outcomes and social benefits for local residents. On Cape Barren Island, a remote island in the Furneaux Group, Inspiring Place achieved all of these goals.

Outcomes

At the heart of the master plan, flowing forms shape the spaces around the island’s
multi-purpose complex drawing inspiration from the strandlines of the nearby beach. Through artist, Maggie Fooke, the detail of these spaces gained life with the use of community inspired motifs resulting in a design that is expressive of local lore.

A paramount driver for the project was the delivery of employment and training. Via an agreed process, the bulk of the project works were undertaken by unemployed locals who received on the job training, gaining certificates in construction, health and safety and horticulture. These social benefits were matched by economic gains with roughly 50% of the project funds retained by islanders and their businesses.

Despite the logistical impediments of working on a remote island using unskilled labour, the project has had true regenerative significance in its reflection of local values and the provision of social and economic benefits beyond the norm of sustainability.

Recognition

2004 Award for Design in Landscape Architecture and a Partnership Award for Innovative Landscape Details, Australian Institute of Landscape Architects (Tasmania).

Photography: Jerry De Gryse