Platform 3 was created to be a meeting place that is vibrant, casual and welcoming. Being conceived as a metaphorical waiting lounge located above the train platforms, this new ‘platform’ offers a transit room for commuters. The success of this project was based on the place-making approach to design and looked beyond the design brief. The idea of materialism and the relationship between public and private domains were challenged resulting in an enriched design outcome. Eye catching details brought the design to life, such as the yellow tactile.

The random placing of this item along the timber benches highlights the concept and invites a strong sense of public space. The characteristics of sharing space and the notion of being in a congested railway station has been brought to the dinner experience. The idea of a group of patrons sharing the same dinner table is to resemble the shared seating space inside the train cabin.

Parts of the external wall facing the walk way of the mall have been reduced from the typical full height glass shop front to a mere row of old railway sleeper panels, sitting on top of the half height recycled brick wall. It allows the ambience, noise and smell of the place to be permeated. Often the interested shoppers peek through the gaps. It also allows conversation between the bistro customers and their friends who walk pass when they are being spotted.

Another award won by Rptecture Architects for its design in Melbourne, 2014 Rethinking The Future Award – competition had 525 entries from more than 60 countries. Previous awards won included Melbourne Design Award 2012 Finalist and City of Whitehorse Built Environment Awards 2013 Winner.

Photography: Mauro Pomponio
Design by Rptecture Architects