Cyclone Maria passed through the city of Rockhampton, Australia in 2015, leaving behind a path of destruction. To help revitalize the damaged waterfront and surrounding area, the community mobilized and established the Rockhampton Riverside Precinct project. The project included the development of a public park, to create an enjoyable gathering place while boosting the economy in the process.
The design consultancy Dotdash developed a wayfinding system for the area. Dotdash first undertook a wayfinding and placemaking investigation, to understand the character of the city, user needs, and circulation patterns. The resulting wayfinding strategy connects destinations through the area and encourages exploration.
In addition to connectivity, resiliency became a core theme and source of inspiration for the project. Resiliency reflects the people of Rockhampton. Signage materials were selected for their ability to endure damaging weather, relevance to context, and sustainability.
Directional information is displayed on folded metal panels, mounted on stone plinths. Interpretive panels, mounted on balustrades along the river, provide opportunities to learn about the city’s historical ties to the river. Identification totems are illuminated and help encourage the use of spaces during the day and night.
Project: Rockhampton Riverside
Location: Rockhampton, Australia
Designer: dotdash
Architect: Woods Bagot
Urban Planner: Urbis
Industrial Designer: Street and Garden
Photographs: Florian Groehn
