The much-loved Suttons Beach Pavilion is set to undergo a remarkable transformation, following the announcement of a national architectural design competition aimed at breathing new life into this charming waterfront location from the 1930s.
The Suttons Beach Pavilion, a historical Art Deco structure that has long been cherished by the community, was recently shrouded in construction fencing. A comprehensive report deemed it beyond repair and too costly to salvage.
Consequently, the Moreton Bay City Council has made the bold decision to replace the dilapidated pavilion with a cutting-edge design that will redefine the area.
Embracing Architectural Excellence
This ambitious project has drawn inspiration from iconic structures around the world, such as the Eiffel Tower, Sydney Opera House, and Washington’s White House, which were brought to life through architectural design competitions.
Now, Australia’s finest architects are invited to participate in a national competition to design a new building that will stand in place of the deteriorating Suttons Beach Pavilion.
Envisioning the Future of Suttons Beach
Mayor Peter Flannery expressed his vision for the project, emphasising that the winning design will go beyond just replacing the existing structure. It will encompass a comprehensive plan to enhance the entire waterfront site, including provisions for restaurants, a rooftop public space, and shower and toilet facilities.
The council is committed to preserving as many historical materials as possible to retain a sense of the area’s rich heritage.
“We understand the significance of the previous Suttons Beach Pavilion to the local community, and the new building design will consider the history of the site, as well as extensive community feedback,” said Mayor Flannery.
Community Involvement and Expert Guidance
Residents had the opportunity to contribute their ideas for the replacement building’s design and style during March and April. These valuable suggestions are expected to shape the design brief for the competition.
The Moreton City Council has engaged the Australian Institute of Architects to ensure that industry best practices are followed throughout the competition. The institute’s endorsement will further solidify the competition guidelines and model.
A Project with a Timeline
The architectural design competition will officially launch in mid-November 2023, with the hope of having a shortlist of architects ready to compete in the second stage by early 2024. The winning design will be announced by July 2024.
Suttons Beach Pavilion Preservation Group secretary Karen Whittam expressed excitement and positivity within the community, noting that the contest signifies a significant step towards rejuvenating the Suttons Beach precinct. She also pointed out that the council’s investment in top architects will contribute to the project’s success.
As the vision for Suttons Beach takes shape, it promises to bring new opportunities for employment and economic development to the area. The precinct is an integral part of the Redcliffe Peninsula’s tourism offering, and its revitalisation will ensure that the City of Moreton Bay remains an attractive place to live, work, visit, and invest in the future.
Published 28-Oct-2023
