Revitalised Seafarers Precinct in Melbourne Opens its Doors to the Public
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A fresh waterfront hotel and public park have recently debuted in Melbourne, marking the revival of the Seafarers precinct in Docklands. This rejuvenated area, deeply rooted in the site's maritime legacy, was brought to life through a collaborative effort involving FK, Oculus, Carr, and One Design Office.
In the heart of Melbourne's Docklands, a new 3,500-square-metre public park and a luxurious $600 million hotel have opened their doors to the public. Located in North Wharf on the northern banks of the Yarra River, the revitalised Seafarers precinct was meticulously designed by a talented collaborative team.
According to a statement from Riverlee, the project developer, the new Seafarers Rest Park stands out as the only riverfront park constructed in the city in over two decades. This new 200-metre-long park, which broke ground in April 2024, was designed by landscape architecture firm Oculus in partnership with the City of Melbourne. The park serves as essential green infrastructure and a habitat for Melbourne's CBD, providing direct access to pedestrians and cyclists leading to the river.
Adjacent to the park sits the newly unveiled One Hotel and Homes, a project spearheaded by architecture firm FK, with hotel interiors crafted by One Design Office and residential interiors by Carr. Embracing the adaptive reuse of the historic Goods Shed No. 5, the building comprises 277 guest rooms and 114 residences.
Originally constructed in 1939 to replace the Gold Rush-era shed, the Goods Shed No. 5 remained a bustling hub on Melbourne's waterfront until access was limited by the Charles Grimes Bridge erected in 1975.
FK principal Falk Peuser emphasised that the hotel's design draws inspiration from the shed's forms and the precinct's urban context. The facade features two distinctive volumetric forms, paying homage to the shed's angular side panels and the dynamic nature of the river. This sculptural form honours its history while embracing a forward-looking approach that harmonises with its natural surroundings.
Seafarers Rest Park's design also reflects the site's maritime heritage, with the refurbished shed serving as the precinct's centrepiece. The park incorporates timber seating inspired by shipping crates, rope swings, historical signage, and local maritime artifacts. Moreover, over 2,000 original items from the shed have been preserved, with more than 4,500 square meters of reclaimed and recycled timber integrated throughout the area.
The restoration of the site's ecological heritage within the park emphasises a preservation-led approach, incorporating water-sensitive urban design, habitat-supportive landscaping, and plantings like native grasses and wildflowers that once adorned the Birrarung/Yarra River.
Oculus director Claire Martin highlighted the project's commitment to honouring the site's past while fostering an inclusive landscape that promotes public health and well-being.
City of Melbourne Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece commended the precinct, recognising its historical significance and potential as a cherished space for leisure and relaxation.
The Seafarers precinct is now open to the public, offering a blend of history, nature, and contemporary design for all to enjoy.
Source: Architecture, Au
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