Elizabeth Quay is a new waterfront precinct that unites central Perth with the Swan River. Its focus is a 730m terraced-promenade surrounding a newly formed inlet and a completely new island created by excavating the land that joined it to the shore.

TCL worked in collaboration with ARM Architecture on the design and documentation of the project.

The island is planted with indigenous species to encourage wildlife. It is a venue for large public events and, between events, a secluded place to relax. There is a children’s playground and the soft garden landscape is an oasis within the surrounding city. The island has a stone revetment and a sand ramp designed for small recreational craft and wild swans. There is a water-treatment facility for surface run off — a sustainability measure to preserve water quality.

Elizabeth Quay is programmed for specific uses including festivals, Anzac Day celebrations, particular performance types and sports including volleyball. There are places for eating and drinking. There is public art with freestanding structures and a light installation by artist Stuart Green that illuminates the edge of the inlet. There is BHP Billiton Water Park, a paved water-play area inspired by Western Australia’s dry lakes. It produces mist and jets that create water rooms.

Elizabeth Quay Redevelopment is a symbol of Perth’s coming of age as a lively and diverse international centre of living, culture, creativity, learning, entertainment and business.