Fairfield City Council engaged us to lead the transformation of Bareena Park, Canley Vale, into a vibrant, inclusive, and accessible public space. Funded through a generous $4 million grant from the Public Spaces Legacy Program. The primary objective of the design is to revitalise the existing open space and create a welcoming and inclusive public area for the whole community to enjoy.
Fairfield Council has long recognised the importance of open spaces for the physical, mental, and social well-being of its community members. As a result, they have committed to creating more opportunities for residents to connect with nature and engage in recreational activities. One such initiative is the transformation of Bareena Park into a vibrant, all-inclusive destination playground designed for all ages.
We were engaged to provide the concept design for the Bareena Park playground. It aims to offer a wide range of activities and facilities that cater to various interests and needs. This multi-use space is designed to provide residents with a dynamic and engaging recreational environment.
The park is divided into four key design sections:
Unique Playground Features: The hero piece is the one-of-a-kind large koi fish tower and slide delivered by Lark Industries, creating the dynamic “fish out of water” themed playground.
‘This stunning tower stands at 7.5 metres, skilfully portraying the Koi Fish mid-leap, inviting park-goers to indulge in imaginative play and dynamic climbing escapades. Its thoughtfully designed fins serve as both artistic features and climbing platforms. The sculpture’s body, composed of intricately perforated panels and steel wire mesh with a range of openings, creates captivating interplays of light and shadow, providing varying degrees of shade and visibility.
Internally, an intricate rope-based obstacle course showcases ladders, nets, and climbing elements of diverse complexities. Users challenge skills at various heights, while rubber seats offer comfort below and by the slide’s entrance. The tower’s charm is amplified by the iconic Koi patterns that grace its surface, a testament to its meticulous craftsmanship.’ Lark Industries
Inclusivity and Accessibility: One of the primary goals of the project was to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for people of all ages and abilities. The park now features ramps, wide pathways, and play equipment designed and selected for equal access including , swings , carousels and sensory play and those keen to take part in outdoor fitness. Additionally, a large gym node, learn-to-ride circuit track, sheltered picnic areas, and Exeloo toilets have been incorporated to cater to diverse recreational needs.
Variety in Play Value: The playground design emphasies variety in play value, with a particular focus on the tower. Climbing and sliding elements take centre stage, ensuring that users are both challenged and engaged.
Residential Integration: Consideration was given to nearby residential properties, with the aim of directing views away from the residential area, preserving privacy, and minimising disruption.
User-Friendly Design: The layout of the play space was meticulously planned to ensure it is easily understood and accessible to users of all ages and abilities, including first-time visitors. Clear signage and wayfinding through the park, promotes a positive experience.
Seating and Shade: Both formal and informal seating opportunities have been strategically placed throughout the park, ensuring that visitors can relax comfortably while enjoying the various activities. Shade structures are strategically located near activity areas to provide respite from the sun.
Felicity is an Associate Director and landscape architect with extensive experience in the private and public sectors. She has been involved in many projects, from highly detailed small-scale spaces to larger industrial, commercial, and residential areas.
