Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

Perth Cultural Centre

Perth

Australia

Contributed by 
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
November 3, 2015
December 22, 2017

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

Despite being a hub of cultural institutions, with destinations such as the Film and Television Institute, the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art, The Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Blue Room Theatre, the State Theatre Centre, the Perth Cultural Centre remained merely a collection of stark, uninviting buildings with no outdoor public activity for years. Outside building walls, the area’s brutalist architecture and empty spaces were largely avoided by the public. In 2009, Perth’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority (MRA) began a project to turn the centre into a multi-use, public space destination. The MRA, along with PPS and other stakeholders, spearheaded a Placemaking initiative to transform this public space, relying largely on phased, Lighter, Quicker, Cheaper strategies.

Early steps were simple, such as adding shade structures and seating to make the space more comfortable, installing a large screen on which to project movies and digital art, and providing free WiFi. Soon, excitement about the changing space grew, attracting greater community support and involvement. With the added help, the MRA was able to turn an abandoned water feature into a native wetland area, build a play space, and convert a rooftop parking lot into a community garden. These physical improvements were paired with a variety of programs including movie screenings and concerts. The MRA also encouraged the institutions to take part in the project by expanding their programs outdoors. The result was stimulating exhibitions and activities, including an outdoor art series by The Perth Institute of  Contemporary Art. Through this experience, the institutions came to realize the benefits of having this public venue, especially in helping grow their audience and create a more accessible relationship with the community.

The centre continues to thrive as an important gathering place in the city. It has come to gain wide recognition and serve as the host of the Perth International Arts Festival and the Fringe World Festival. From small beginnings, this community-led LQC strategy has shown enormous success in revitalizing its public space and partnering communities with cultural and educational institutions.

Access & Linkages

Comfort & Image

Uses & Activities

Sociability

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Related Links & Sources

Photo credits, all: MRA

Follow Perth Cultural Centre

Website: mra.wa.gov.au/perth-cultural-centre

Facebook: facebook.com/PerthCulturalCentre

Twitter: @VitalPerth

Perth Cultural Centre
A forgotten water feature was transformed into a native wetland. Today, it's a an ecological landmark
Perth Cultural Centre
The Centre is multi-destinational
Perth Cultural Centre
Harvesting and planting day at the Perth Cultural Centre
Perth Cultural Centre
From an unused space to a populated Place
Perth Cultural Centre
Bean bag chairs create a comfortable place to relax
Perth Cultural Centre
The children's play space is a popular destination for families
Perth Cultural Centre
Perth Cultural Centre

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

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