2020 Landscape Architecture Australia Student Prize: Deakin University

Living with sea rise: Barwon Estuary Design Framework by Rudan Fan, Master of Landscape Architecture, Deakin University

Project Statement

In Australia, around 85 percent of residents live within 50 kilometres of the coastline. In considering the effects of climate change, rising sea levels present one of the most significant challenges for human and non-human ecosystems. The project site lies within the Barwon River Estuary, in the Greater Geelong region. As a coastal case study, Barwon Estuary Design Framework presents a vision of how a resilient living environment in a coastal region might be created that responds to climate change.

The project proposes a three-stage process of long-term planning, “accept-transform-adapt,” to develop an amphibious coastal living environment, while introducing sustainable and dynamic landscape interventions that increase awareness of climate change impacts. Barwon Estuary Design Framework demonstrates how nature-based infrastructure can be used to create vibrant spaces that encourage a harmonious co-existence between humans and nature.

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