Moncrieff East

Redbox Design Group contributed to the estate planning and landscape masterplan, then led the detailed landscape design. We mapped existing trees and landscape features early, using them to locate paths, seating and play spaces. The layout moves from more developed parkland in the north towards the native woodland in the south.

Walking and cycling connections link the recreation park, hilltop play space and surrounding neighbourhood. We led the design concept for Wagi Bridge over Ginninderra Creek, connecting Moncrieff with Amaroo and its wider path network. Tall orange markers identify the crossing within the landscape.

At the pond near Mirrabei Drive, a jetty and plaza provide a place to meet and look across the water. Vegetated drainage channels form part of the adjoining open space. Excess fill was shaped into mounds while retaining an established stand of trees.

Singer Gladys Moncrieff inspired the musical play elements, furniture motifs and pavement patterns. The client’s sunset colours carry through signage and structures. At the hilltop play space, tuned instruments were positioned away from homes so children could experiment with sound.

The completed spaces give Moncrieff East a connected network of places to walk, cycle, play and stop. Wagi Bridge provides a crossing to Amaroo, the pond has a public viewing platform, and established trees remain part of the neighbourhood’s landscape.

Within this network, Moncrieff Community Recreation Park brings together ball courts, climbing equipment, fitness facilities and open lawns.

Moncrieff East received the 2018 AILA ACT Landscape Architecture Award in the Parks and Open Space category. The project brings recreation and everyday journeys into the same landscape, with distinct places along the routes between homes, parks and neighbouring suburbs.