A transformational redesign at Westpoint Blacktown shopping centre, owned by QIC, has repurposed existing space to capture the attention of a growing community.
QIC leveraged an opportunity to reinvigorate a 10,000 square metre vacant space by introducing three mini-majors and more than 20 smaller retailers and engaged the architecture and interiors team at global practice Buchan, in collaboration with Seventh Wave, to design the precinct.
The redesign has created a holistic, welAll Medial-defined precinct that is more relevant to the suburb’s younger demographic.
Buchan Associate William Perkin said the aim was to create a reinvigorated retail offer. “We rejected the typical white plasterboard mall, replacing it with a tactile experience brought to life through textural finishes and verdant greenery to give Westpoint a unique, recognisable character. Our focus was on creating an open, lively destination that encourages people to gather and connect.”
A key design move was restructuring the existing atrium to admit more natural light. The atrium ceiling was decluttered through the removal of steel trusses. New frameless glass balustrades open the space further to optimise light penetration and increase key retail sightlines.
Extensive greenery and biophilic elements make a dramatic impact via cantilevered pots that feature a subtle mixture of faux and real planting. Around these, the public circulation spaces are interspersed with seating clusters that provide places for visitors to decompress and relax, encouraging dwell time.
The overall shopping experience is improved by lighting that highlights key design elements. To maximise the sense of brightness, new terrazzo floor tiles radiate in tone from dark to light as they pixelate further from the central skylight. Textured ceiling surfaces provide acoustic benefits and contribute to a comfortable environment.
Operation efficiencies were introduced by re-purposing the loading dock to support the new mini-majors loading requirements as well as additional services to support the demanding fresh food precinct. Mechanical services were reconfigured and concealed within the design to support new tenancies and drive efficiencies for tenants and the centre’s budgets.
“The repositioning of Westpoint exemplifies adaptability in retail design,” said Perkin. “While the interior has undergone significant upgrades, the floor plate and core structural elements have been largely preserved, saving embodied carbon, reducing the need for new materials and allowing for future flexibility. The approach also minimised downtime, with a tight project program of nine months.”
QIC Investment Manager, Catherine Carmody, said the repositioning provides valuable amenity to the people of Blacktown. “The upgrade symbolises the maturing of Westpoint as the core of Blacktown’s CBD and an investment in realigning the centre to reflect the needs of the growing, diverse local community. The redesign enhances accessibility and creates an environment which feels safe and welcoming.”
Westpoint Blacktown has been shortlisted in the Property Council’s Innovation and Excellence Awards, with winners to be announced in September.
Jade Nolan