STREETSCAPE CUSTOMISATION

Whether its existing urban areas in need of an upgrade or urban architects eager to get their designer lens atop a new locality, successful planning of urban streetscapes and shared spaces is the backbone of neighbourhoods and public realms. ACO Polycrete has the knowledge and experience to create customised infrastructure to ensure the success of any public space project. 

Successful projects feature unique open areas suitable for pedestrians, cyclists and commuters to roam, connect and breathe. Urban public areas, in particular, should hold great cosmetic appeal on top of functionality. In addition, where we choose to spend our leisure time becomes a part of our own cultural and community identities, so the desirability of an urban environment is a huge factor for governments and businesses looking to secure return visitors to any one area.

AN ENVIRONMENT THAT CATERS FOR ALL

Sprucing up an area or giving it a dose of ‘beautification’ can ensure that space facilitates harmony and beauty, connection, community spirit and identity among its users. In particular, a thriving public domain can contribute to the relationship between its visitors as well as their accessibility to, and ease of movement through an area.  

Urban public areas need to be compatible with existing establishments and spaces, so designers often include indigenous and natural plantings where possible. They are also required to cater for a wide variety of activities and receptors, therefore designers need to consider giving an area a diverse contextual appeal. This may include provisions such as bike racks, drinking fountains, play areas, dog bowls, trees, attuned lighting and landscaping.

Ease of access to businesses and retail buildings, as well as signage necessary for maps, services and parking, should also form part of the brief. Furthermore, if an urban environment has historical or symbolic characteristics, its design should preserve the originality and distinguishing features of an existing area. This gives a place a soul providing great emotional appeal.

OBSTACLES FOR THE URBAN DESIGNER

When it comes to designing an area that will last, there are many considerations for the urban planner or landscape architect. Naturally, any construction will impact upon locals and visitors, so limiting its inconveniences or communicating them while under development can help retain public confidence.

Other obstacles, such as steep topography, can present many challenges, but can be transformed into a feature element with livability within the streetscape. A pavement can act as a visual stimulus, but sticking to fewer materials with discrete service enclosures can help the optical fluidity of the surface. While differences can create interest and contrast on the ground plane, having a level change and alignment between different materials, textures or patterns can help avoid clashes and streamline areas for foot traffic.

Regardless of taste, a good, accessible streetscape allows neighbours to socialise at meeting points, engage in physical activity, enjoy natural elements while catering for all seasons with awnings and shade options, and creating a pleasant environment to be around that still offers residential and commercial connectivity. Designers should always develop living spaces with elements that are easy to maintain and upkeep.

A SOLUTION TO A PUBLIC PROBLEM

ACO Polycrete knows how important it is to find the right drainage to reduce the effects of natural elements like rain, stormwater and oils, and to find a solution that will blend in with the feel of a designer’s visual objectives. That’s why they have developed a line of iron grates specifically tailored to be implemented into any urban project.

ACO’s ductile iron materials are designed to be foot- and vehicular-traffic friendly. The Heelsafe^® Anti-Slip range has been specifically engineered to meet criteria based purely on Australian standards.

ACO can guide you through choosing a compliant grate to suit any application – including bespoke design services that provide full design control of the end result to the client.

STREETSCAPE CASE STUDIES
Pitt Street Mall, Sydney
Angel Place, Sydney
Crown Street Mall, Wollongong

WHY CHOOSE ACO POLYCRETE?

ACO want you to be happy with your product choice because they know the stakes are high and your integrity is on the line when it comes to high profile projects. The team at ACO are extensively trained to make the process seamless.

Headquartered in Western Sydney, ACO is a leader in manufacturing for urban infrastructure.