The Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW) has released the design of its new forecourt, which will create a civic gathering place with two reflection pools outside the entrance to the existing historic building.
Designed by American landscape architect Kathryn Gustafson and her Seattle-based practice GGN together with Australian practice McGregor Coxall, the forecourt will provide more than 850 square metres of additional public space by occupying the existing car park.
“Public open space is more important than ever as we seek out places of peace, reflection and to celebrate the joy of life,” Kathryn Gustafson said.
“Our goal with the Sydney Modern Project is to create a flexible and welcoming place for all visitors, where they can connect with the natural and cultural environment in this stunning location.”
The two shallow pools will provide seating along the edges of the space. To be made from polished granite, the “pools” are designed for use with or without water. They will both reflect and frame the neo-classical facade of the existing building.
The landscape design will also include an unfolding series of experiences across the open spaces and gardens that will connect the existing building and the new gallery designed by SANAA and Architectus.
New trees will provide additional shade with 70 percent of the trees to be endemic to the landscape of area.
“The Art Gallery’s expanded and transformed campus will provide an exceptional experience of art, architecture and landscape for everyone to enjoy in one of the world’s most beautiful urban locations,” said AGNSW director Michael Brand.
“Kathryn Gustafson’s design for our new civic forecourt will provide visitors to the Art Gallery more space to gather and better connects our magnificent site on Gadigal Country to The Domain, the Royal Botanic Garden and the city. As we celebrate our 150th anniversary, we look forward to the next 150 years and are pleased to be creating a new home for art that is responsive to this era and generations to come.”
Construction on the Sydney Modern project and the landscapes are underway and they are due to be complete in 2022.
