Even though our cities are dramatically increasing in density, still the idea of The Australian Backyard has a firm grip on our concept of Home and Comfort.
In truth this is less about the size or scope of the space; it is more about a sense of ownership, of belonging that exemplifies how we experience a ‘Home’. For the residents of Drill Hall, this small patch of open space has become exactly that. Neglected over time, they took it upon themselves to occupy the space, to maintain it; soon adding raised vegetable gardens and having their own community gatherings; and in this way it became their Backyard.
When the time came to consolidate their ideas into a designed space, this was the only way to go – to create a backyard space that was both public and private, that provided for the needs of the residents who would have a sense of ownership over the space, who would maintain it in their way, but allow it to also be a community backyard, one that reflected the increased need for personal open space across the cityscape.
The intention of this design is to imply private space in a public arena, and allow the Residents of Drill Hall to grow the space in their own way, to build a sense of belonging in what has become their Backyard.
Elliot Summers
Creative Director
0424 036 884 // elliot@polygonla.com.au // www.polygonla.com.au
Latest news:
- Eddie Kutner owner of Central Equity Apartments and founder of Wonderment Walks – art installations – has committed to installing an appropriate art work in the garden. This process will probably take several months. It will at all times be done in consultation with residents.
- The current design proposal by Elliot Summers of Polygon for the garden is presently with City of Melbourne for costing prior to submission as a Capital Grants Proposal.
- City of Melbourne has agreed to fund a gas lever for the lid of the worm farm making it easier to lift.
- HCA has submitted an application to the Heritage Restoration fund for contribution to repairing the the heritage wall around the perimeter of the community garden.