Design for the centre of Dandenong…

Foster Street is an architectural design solution which reinforces the connection of a busy train station to an activity centre for Melbourne’s most dynamic outer-suburban commercial hub.

A gateway building to connect the city

This is a ‘gateway building’ along the previously under-activated pedestrian access path between Dandenong train station and the city centre. The site fronts onto Settlers Square, a major pick-up and drop-off point for Dandenong.

The architectural design responds to the unique site characteristics by identifying ways to improve security, shelter the pedestrian walkway, increase lighting and provide intuitive wayfinding symbols.

Architectural design that performs vital public roles

By clustering a series of retail spaces around the square with a gym and apartments in the tower above them, security to Settlers Square is improved at night due to direct lines of sight.

The podium design steps out to provide a sheltered walkway to the retail and pedestrian thoroughfare. It also connects to the train pick-up and drop-off zone.

The station-facing façade incorporates a prominent ‘building slice’ design feature that becomes a wayfinding symbol to those exiting the station towards the drop-off zone or walking through Halpin Way towards the activity centre.

An illuminated geometric canopy wraps around the ground level walkway and shelters Settlers Square.

Passive solar design

The podium façade that faces Settlers Square incorporates passive solar design by receding in places to shade from the harsh eastern sun. The angled geometry formed by protruding balconies and balcony soffits creates depth that further aids passive solar design.