This First Nation Cultural Design Brief presents a series of design principles gathered through the work of the Cultural Authority team of the WSW Aboriginal Refuge Healing Partnership. The design principles were founded on a connection to Country, caring for people and best practice sustainable development through a holistic approach to health and wellbeing. We see the role of this brief as one that provides the groundwork for a deep and rich process of design. We sought the contribution of women to share their learning experiences on Country, which strengthen and deepen the values outlined in this Brief.
During these visits to places on Country
we documented details of landscape,
forms and textures, materials, pathways
and buildings through photography. These
photographs are presented throughout
the brief, acting as visual cues for the
relevant design principles. In addition
to photography, the document includes
details of the project site, 3D scanned
using LiDAR scanning technology.
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The
connection between image (photo and
scan) and text emphasises the importance
of local site, as steppingstones to talk
about the essential design elements for a
strong and effective healing environment.
Taking an ecological view of the site,
a landscape first approach involves
systems of regeneration, restoration and
of repair. This reflects the healing focus
of the site and the journey that residents,
their children and staff will undertake.
This is seen as crucial for the story of a
healing centre. Aligning with the notion of
Country, this is a holistic view of people,
animals, resources and plants as equal and
balanced.
We hope that this document will be a
valuable tool to ensure a local, holistic and
cultural approach to health and wellbeing
is achieved through this project.
Office Locations:
Contact:
Instagram:
Warrnambool, South West Victoria, Gunditjmara Country
Parkville, Naarm, Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country
office@watersarchitects.com
@watersarchitects
