Wentworth Point is a fast growing and thriving residential community in Homebush Bay on the banks of the Parramatta River. Umbaco was engaged to design the external forecourt of the Library located on the ground floor of 2 large residential towers.Our intention was for the area to be inclusive, multifunctional and multifaceted; to respond to the internal layout of theLibrary and work as an external “extension” to the Library.

On completion, this forecourt activates the entry into the new Library. The overall design is simple yet carefully detailed and snugly fits into the void created by the high-rise residential towers above. The generous seating terraces provide platforms for reading and define flexible spaces for small community events. Kentia palms fill the void above the forecourt magnificently. This simple design has complex detailing as well as a yin-yang energy to it.This is seen in the contrast between the spaces, forms and materials of the two main seating pods. People can now relax against the planters, under the striking Kentia palms, in a contained and yet public space.

To lift the community’s well-being during COVID-19 restrictions the Council implemented“Parramatta By Foot”-an initiative to create vibrant footpath art in various public locations throughout the City of Parramatta to help the community stay connected while social distancing and enjoy the outdoors.

As a part of this initiative, in August 2020 Artist Nadia Odlum created a labyrinth-like installation ‘I’ll meet you here again’ in the library forecourt. In artist’s own words: “I was drawn to the space primarily for the interesting flow between the different structures. I really like working with pedestrian movement, and I appreciated the way people were funnelled in from multiple points of approach to then find themselves in areas for open congregation. I also thought the different levels of the design created great opportunities for varied use. For my particular artwork I was also attracted to the fact that children and families use this space, as I am interested in generating opportunities for intergenerational play within public space.”Nadia sympathetically connected with the flowing nature of the forecourt space and highlighted how even subtle artwork can create a meaningful layer in urban space and elevate the experience of being there to another level.A space becomes a ‘place’ when people appropriate it and take inspiration from it. As landscape architects we are providing a backdrop or framework that becomes vibrant and alive if the space is designed well.