This project is a key piece in the greater project of repairing the urban fabric of Darling Harbour and reconnecting central Sydney to its iconic waterfront, with an exciting, freely accessible destination for children and young people.
The 2000m2 playground and public realm is an extension of the existing playground at Darling Quarter. Its opening was a significant moment for ASPECT Studios, marking the culmination of 12 years of design and collaboration with stakeholders.
The playground replaces what was previously a cluttered, hard to navigate space. Sweeping out clutter and mediating challenging level changes, the public realm is now a truly publicly accessible destination that is already attracting families from across Sydney.
A widened waterfront plaza and new playground are central to the project, which covers more than a hectare adjacent to the IMAX complex.
The playground is the latest element in the long-term transformation of Darling Harbour, and which is creating a chain of high-quality public spaces, stretching between the water and Central station, and cementing Darling Harbour as the pre-eminent destination for families.
The playground itself builds on lessons learnt from other ASPECT-designed play spaces at Darling Quarter and Pirrama Park. Namely, that children are excited by playgrounds that break the rules – a principle that is on full display at The Ribbon playground. Using a maritime theme, the intriguing structures form a wave-shaped topography supported by climbable masts and rigging. Positioned beneath the Western Distributor, the playground and its surrounds enjoy shade throughout the year – something hard to come by in this part of the city during summer.
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