Studio [R] Architects have created a retail strip in Bowral by researching a variety of retail environments and urban infill developments throughout Australia and overseas. The $20 million project brief was to create high quality retail areas within a spatial environment. The firm moved away from the traditional model of an enclosed, air-conditioned shopping mall. The site acts as a practical link between the town's main street and largest car park. This connection is not a straight run, but is offset to create a variety of spatial types while maximising retail shop frontage. The large central piazza creates a destination/meeting point for the community. It also houses the point for vertical circulation to the first floor offices.
Natural light, landscaping and natural materials take precedence over architectural features. Natural materials such as face brick (a local Bowral brick), granite, timber, brass and steel were used. The main piazza catenary lighting ties together the separate building forms, while at each entry a light box beacon signifies the seasons with changing lighting effects. Individual tenants can also control their own environment with regards to light levels and heating/cooling. Environmentally sustainable design is also supported by toilet flushing from a 10,000 litre water tank.
