Exploring New Horizons: RMM's Vision for Winton
Aug 11, 2024
RMM Landscape Architects was recently commissioned by the Southland District Council (SDC) to reimagine two significant community spaces in Winton: Great North Road and Anzac Oval. This project aims to reflect the community's needs and desires while creating a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Community-Driven Design Process
Understanding the essence of a community is essential for any public-serving landscape architecture project. To this end, RMM engaged with members of the Oreti Community Board to gain a deeper insight into the local area and its unique character. This meeting was a crucial step in understanding the community's aspirations and concerns through the board's representatives.
From Concept to Creation
Informed by detailed observations and a clear understanding of the community's vision, the RMM team developed two distinct conceptual designs for Great North Road and Anzac Oval.
Concept 1: Celebrating Land Formation
The first concept draws inspiration from the natural land formations that define the local landscape. Central to this design are limestone features that echo the geological history of the region. Playful water features, rolling mounds, and vibrant planting areas are thoughtfully brought together to create a narrative that celebrates the natural beauty and heritage of the landscape. This concept aims to enhance the existing features while providing inclusive and enjoyable public spaces that resonate with the community's identity.
The design images illustrate the detailed layout of this concept, highlighting the integration of natural elements and the creation of inviting spaces for relaxation and play. The design strategies for Anzac Oval, as expounded on in the third image, show how the concept merges urban and natural environments, creating a seamless and welcoming space.
Concept 2: Honouring Industrial Heritage
The second concept focuses on Winton's rich industrial history. This design pays homage to the Winton Station, the town's agricultural heritage, and its grid layout. By incorporating these historical elements into a series of refined yet playful spaces, this concept creates a dynamic landscape that caters to diverse community uses and activities. This approach acknowledges the past while providing a forward-thinking space that meets contemporary needs.
The images depict the thoughtful layout of this concept, showcasing elements such as the remembrance wall, which serves as both a historical tribute and a focal point for community gatherings. The thoughtful design strategies, as explained in the third image, demonstrate how the concept aims to create a peaceful and engaging environment for residents and visitors alike.
Looking Ahead: Community Feedback and Future Steps
Currently, these concepts are with the community for consideration and feedback. This step is essential to ensure that the final design reflects the community's desires and meets the actual needs of Winton's residents. RMM values every piece of feedback as an opportunity to refine our design approach.
As we await the community's feedback, RMM looks forward to continuing our collaboration with the SDC and the people of Winton. Our goal is to transform Great North Road and Anzac Oval into spaces that not only serve practical purposes but also foster a sense of pride and belonging among residents. These projects aim to be more than just landscape designs; they aim to become places where community bonds are strengthened.
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Photos taken by Tony Milne.
Community-Driven Design Process
Understanding the essence of a community is essential for any public-serving landscape architecture project. To this end, RMM engaged with members of the Oreti Community Board to gain a deeper insight into the local area and its unique character. This meeting was a crucial step in understanding the community's aspirations and concerns through the board's representatives.
From Concept to Creation
Informed by detailed observations and a clear understanding of the community's vision, the RMM team developed two distinct conceptual designs for Great North Road and Anzac Oval.
Concept 1: Celebrating Land Formation
The first concept draws inspiration from the natural land formations that define the local landscape. Central to this design are limestone features that echo the geological history of the region. Playful water features, rolling mounds, and vibrant planting areas are thoughtfully brought together to create a narrative that celebrates the natural beauty and heritage of the landscape. This concept aims to enhance the existing features while providing inclusive and enjoyable public spaces that resonate with the community's identity.
The design images illustrate the detailed layout of this concept, highlighting the integration of natural elements and the creation of inviting spaces for relaxation and play. The design strategies for Anzac Oval, as expounded on in the third image, show how the concept merges urban and natural environments, creating a seamless and welcoming space.
Concept 2: Honouring Industrial Heritage
The second concept focuses on Winton's rich industrial history. This design pays homage to the Winton Station, the town's agricultural heritage, and its grid layout. By incorporating these historical elements into a series of refined yet playful spaces, this concept creates a dynamic landscape that caters to diverse community uses and activities. This approach acknowledges the past while providing a forward-thinking space that meets contemporary needs.
The images depict the thoughtful layout of this concept, showcasing elements such as the remembrance wall, which serves as both a historical tribute and a focal point for community gatherings. The thoughtful design strategies, as explained in the third image, demonstrate how the concept aims to create a peaceful and engaging environment for residents and visitors alike.
Looking Ahead: Community Feedback and Future Steps
Currently, these concepts are with the community for consideration and feedback. This step is essential to ensure that the final design reflects the community's desires and meets the actual needs of Winton's residents. RMM values every piece of feedback as an opportunity to refine our design approach.
As we await the community's feedback, RMM looks forward to continuing our collaboration with the SDC and the people of Winton. Our goal is to transform Great North Road and Anzac Oval into spaces that not only serve practical purposes but also foster a sense of pride and belonging among residents. These projects aim to be more than just landscape designs; they aim to become places where community bonds are strengthened.
⎯⎯⎯
Photos taken by Tony Milne.
