The County of Serpentine Jarrahdale, located outside Perth, has unveiled designs for a new visitor centre inspired by the shape of the leaves of the Jarrah tree.
The Jarrahdale Trail Centre, located on Millars Road, will act as the gateway to the trails. The centre will provide a sheltered space for trail users to plan their walk, rest and learn more about the surrounding walks, parks and nature reserves.
The aim of the new centre is to help the town become a renowned hiking destination, with plans for the building to be “an attraction in its own right” visible from the main road. The preferred site for the centre is a plot of land next to an accommodation park – a strategic position that fits with the aim of increasing footfall.
Preliminary plans have been drawn up by S2 Architects. The concept design report states that the building will be multi-purpose, comprising a flexible exhibition and functions area, a visitor information and administration area, a retail space and the possibility of a semi-outdoor gallery. The centre will adopt an inclusive and accessible plan to accommodate a range of visitor groups – from school groups, hikers and locals to tourists and mountain bikers.
The proposed site will allow for a two-storey or two-story building. The building will fit its site, sloping down the land with a ground level entrance on both levels. The roof form references the shape of leaves, allowing natural light and ventilation to filter through the gaps between the leaves. The material palette includes concrete, copper patina, jarrah and weathered steel, complemented by a colour palette of terracotta, eucalyptus, mid grey and dark grey.
According to the design report, the project will be developed in three stages. The first stage will include the development of half of the building, including the exhibition and reception area, the visitor information and registration area, a grassed play area and a covered terrace and outdoor dining area. The second stage will replicate the form of the first half of the building and will include the inclusion of a retail offering and kitchen. The final stage will include the addition of an amphitheatre, research areas and additional offices.
Serpentine Jarrahdale Shire councillors have unanimously agreed to use the concept plan to seek funding.