Fender Katsalidis Architects add another arts precinct project to their collection

Fender Katsalidis Architects add another arts precinct project to their collection
Olivia RoundJuly 3, 2019

Iconic Australian architecture firm Fender Katsalidis has just signed a contract to lead the design of Kingston Arts Precinct in Canberra. The mixed-use precinct will be located adjacent to Lake Burley Griffen and will provide a place for multiple arts organisations to gather and create. Fender Katsalidis Director David Sutherland explains that the precinct will endeavour to deliver a “more cohesive and community-focused arts experience in Canberra”.

The project falls under the $78 million urban renewal project will see an underutilised space transform into a thriving precinct.

“We have deeply considered the public realm and its relationship with the existing heritage buildings in our plans as these are emblematic within the urban canvas. The project ties in nicely with our completed and ongoing work in Canberra as well as our broader work in promoting the arts in Australia.”

David Sutherland, Fender Katsalidis Director

Joining Fender Katsalidis in the collaborative project will be developers Geocon and landscape architects Oculus.

Nick Georgalis, founder and managing director at Geocon has confirmed that contracts have now been signed, and the team are ready to commence work to bring the project to life.

“Canberrans are looking to us, to bring culture, vibrancy and excitement to the Kingston Foreshore and we are now ready to deliver.”

Fender Katsalidis Architects add another arts precinct project to their collection
Image credit: Fender Katsalidis

Oculus Founder Bob Earl, also referred to the area as a  “The public domain will be a broad canvas for a series of public experiences and events forming the heart of a thriving creative hub.”

Historically, Fender Katsalidis Architects have designed many arts precincts across Australia, including Mona in Hobart, Buxton Contemporary in Melbourne, Ian Potter Museum of Art in Melbourne, Bendigo Art Gallery Melbourne and more.

Arts organisations to be situated within the new precinct include:

  • Canberra Glassworks
  • Megalo
  • M16 Artspace
  • Craft ACT
  • Canberra Contemporary Artspace
  • PhotoAccess
  • ArtSound

Lead image credit: Fender Katsalidis Architects

Olivia Round

Olivia Round is the Features Editor of urban.com.au. Olivia specialises in news reporting, in-depth editorial content and video + podcast interviews with industry experts.

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