The Forecourt
Parks, Gardens and Reserves
Observatory Gate, Royal Botanic Gardens MelbourneThis challenging project involved the creation of a new main entry gate to the Royal Botanic Gardens through the old Melbourne Observatory site. Land Design Partnership, in association with Peter Elliott Architects, addressed heritage issues related to the existing gardens and the incorporation of the unusual forms of the Old Observatory and Herbarium buildings. This new gateway includes a new forecourt, viewlines and entries to the heritage buildings, theatre and education lawns providing excellent gathering spaces and an external 'gallery of gardens'.
The landscape design is a simple and elegant solution that provides clear sightlines, new access and connections for pedestrians and a strong address for the Gardens to Birdwood Avenue.