2019 Landscape Architecture Australia Student Prize: Deakin University

Revival: Drug Rehabilitation Landscape by Oshadi Jayasinghe, Master of Landscape Architecture, Deakin University

Project statement

Revival is a program for the rehabilitation of drug addicts and land. The project aims to create a connection between mind, body and soul, enabling a fresh start for both patients and the site. Revival responds to a government-identified need for a rehabilitation centre in the Latrobe Valley due to drug addiction issues in the region. The project aims to fulfil that need and engage the existing conditions of the site at the same time. Located off the Tyers-Walhalla Road in the Latrobe Valley and long-abandoned, the site is surrounded by a natural reserve, rich in biological and topographical diversity.

The design aims to rehabilitate the site while the drug rehabilitation program is underway. Using a holistic approach to create a connection between nature and the patients, the program is not about fully curing patients but rather helping them with a fresh start. Programs encourage physical fitness, spiritual wellbeing and engage patients in site rehabilitation activities for the wellbeing of the mind, body, and soul. With different stages of rehabilitation unfolding in parallel with the land’s rehabilitation, Revival seeks to increase patients’ self-confidence through activities that regenerate nature. Through the process, patients build a connection with the land. The project proposes a calm journey of self-renewal.

More awards

See all
George Street, Sydney by City of Sydney Winners revealed: 2024 Australian Urban Design Awards

Eleven projects were recognized in this year’s program, including four winners.

Transforming Southbank Boulevard by City of Melbourne with TCL and Mike Hewson 2024 Australian Urban Design Awards: Winner of Built Projects – Local and Neighbourhood Scale

Transforming Southbank Boulevard by City of Melbourne with TCL and Mike Hewson

Most read

Latest on site