Federation Square, in the heart of Melbourne, is a relatively new destination for visitors and locals alike. Since it opened in October 2002 more than 24 million people have set foot in this innovative and architecturally stunning attraction.
It houses significant cultural attractions including the Ian Potter Gallery of Contemprary Australian Art, the Australian Centre for the Moving Image and the SBS studios, as well as many fine restuarants and bars. The development of Federation Square began in the mid-1990s as part of the Jolimont Rail Yard rationalisation project.
Federation Square is now a new centre of cultural activity for Melbourne, a long-awaited large, open public space. The size of an entire city bock, Federation Square is a focus for Melbourne and Victorian community life. People congregate or stroll unimpeded through the square admiring the views, or in and out of the many exits and entrances leading back to the city and along the Yarra River.
Awards
In 1996, then Victorian premier Jeff Kennett announced an international architectural design competition for a landmark arts entertainment and public space. The prominent site, just north of Princes Bridge and bounded on one side by Flinders Street and the other side by the Yarra River had once housed the austere 1960s Gas and Fuel Towers. This was the beginning of Melbourne's Federation Square.
Awards
Lab architecture studio (then based in London) and Bates Smart Architects (Melbourne) were praised for their winning design: 'The winning scheme draws its inspiration from the unique urban characteristics of Melbourne's arcades and lanes and transforms these elements into a new form of organisation, celebrating the city.'
Primary Child Friendly, Groups
Site Facilities Cafe / Coffee Shop, Carpark, Public Toilets, Restaurant(s), Accommodation, Plenty of Seating, Shop / Kiosk, Souvenir Shop
Disabled Facilities Access, Dedicated Parking, Special Toilets
Activities Concert, Exhibitions
Nearby Ferry Port, Public Transport, Restaurants/Cafes, Shops
Federation Square Attractions
The Ian Potter Centre
NGV Australia
ACMI — Australian Centre for the Moving Image
Champions — Australian Racing Museum and Hall of Fame
National Design Centre
Melbourne Visitor Centre
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