Wurundjeri
Victoria
The Joyce Chapel Bridge, designed by Searle x Waldron Architecture, serves as both pedestrian connection and place for memorial reflection. It spans Merlynston Creek and connects the visitor arrivals car park to the chapel and crematorium in Fawkner Memorial Park. The cemetery was originally designed by Charles Heath in the early 20th century to merge the ideals of the “City Beautiful” movement with Australian landscape qualities. The new bridge is symmetrical, and has a wide path framed by sunken planters, semicircular voids in the centre of the bridge, and brick balustrades that change in height and porosity.
The circular geometry and subtle colour shift of the bricks were used to reinterpret the previously existing heritage bridge. The design focused on providing a clear and accessible path for groups and providing beautiful spaces for personal reflection. The materials used have a 100-year lifespan, reflecting the client’s focus on sustainability and perpetuity.
Jack Jordan, Graduate of Architecture
Jack Murray, Graduate of Architecture
Pearl Dempsey, Graduate of Architecture
Claire Martin, Landscape Consultant
Pitt & Sherry, Structural Engineer
RBA Architects & Conservation Consultants, Heritage Consultant
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
