By Umbaco Landscape Architects
When we say we like challenging sites–we mean it. This former South Hurstville BowlingClub had numerous retaining walls, a rocky cliff and large flat areas–the bowling greens–in unsuitable locations. The site needed to be re-arranged for the purpose of the new school complex. We worked with a team of engineers and architects to adjust the terrain and construct a sustainable landscape. Keeping the original bowling club building on top of the hill was a part of the challenge. New retaining walls presented many opportunities to create extensive gardens. We successfully created practical play areas amongst the “hanging gardens” and the tiered terraced garden beds with added hang out places and seating.
Generous courtyards that can be used for assembly or lunch are surrounded by gardens. The extensive landscape is complete with sport fields, basketball court, vegie garden, olive grove and two carparks including rain gardens for treatment of stormwater. There are robust off form finishes combined with warm brick walls reflecting the architecture of buildings.
The two level playground with basketball courts was added later in 2020 and is popular with students for active recreation and lunches.
UmbaCo Landscape Architects is a creative and dynamic landscape design studio based in Sydney. Founded in 2001, we work across the Sydney region and New South Wales on a broad range of projects, including residential, commercial, educational, age care and public open spaces.
We are a small team known for big innovative design ideas and talents.
Clients tell us they are often impressed by how proactive, energetic and efficient we are and how we think outside of the square. We keep to timelines and pride ourselves on our quality and high standards.
And we love a challenge! We are not daunted by bigger and more complex projects and we’ve been successful in winning awards for our work, both nationally and in NSW