LatStudios were engaged by Southbank Corporation to deliver on their vision for Flowstate; a carefully crafted, open-air pavilion and creative space offering a curated year-long multi-arts program of free artistic experiences.

Stukel Stone’s design won a national design competition based on ‘chrysalis’ which refers to the transitionary nature of the site. Studio ENESS delivered the focal art piece, aptly named Jem, based on light and movement.

LatStudios joined the team to deliver complementary ideas for the landscapes that responded to the vibrancy of this new venue, whilst also respecting the existing Parklands’ character. The project delivers a mix of flexible performance and activation space, primarily housed in the Pavilion, which is complemented by the Flowstate Green, an open sunny lawn, surrounded by generous gardens that are animated with playful custom furniture elements.

Through an intensive, highly collaborative, and fast-tracked program, South Bank Corporation has delivered a truly unique and re-energised venue that has seen significant success and participation since its launch.

Benefits
LatStudios:

• Collaborated with the architects to conceptualise the removal of the roof of the former Arbour View Cafés buildings to expose the portal frames as a key move.
• Incorporated the remnant steel portal structure to frame the space and introduce custom suspended hammock seats (designed in conjunction with Luxxbox) to foster gathering and social interaction.
• Integrated climbers on the portal steelwork and cross-bracing cables to further enhance the recovered remnant aesthetic of the project.
• Retained mature trees within new planters, designed with seat height edges and lush understorey planting.
• Created a relaxed central and shaded gathering area to complement the open sunny Flowstate Green, offering year-round amenity.
• Celebrated the original design aesthetics and materiality of South Bank through retention of existing brick walls, paved edges and floating timber decks.
• Incorporated a rich planting palette of diverse leaf form and colour to celebrate Brisbane’s unique subtropical plant palette and harmonise with the surrounding Parklands precinct’s natural environment.