About

Design

The journey to
Design excellence

Our journey toward design excellence has been an intensive and collaborative effort, bringing together the City of Sydney Council, leading technical advisors, and an esteemed Selection Panel. Through a rigorous design excellence competition, we set out to identify a visionary approach to architecture and urban planning for Waterloo.

“At its best, urban living offers everything you need. The conveniences and pleasures of public life. Shared experiences and a sense of community. And the sanctuary and comforts of home. This development presents the opportunity to provide all of that, and more. ”

An award-winning approach to innovation

The winning design by Bates Smart embodies excellence with its unique blend of creativity, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Bates Smart’s approach seamlessly combines the essential elements of urban life: a full-line Woolworths supermarket, ‘on-demand’ retail, specialty shops, and a commercial building, all while enhancing the community’s connection to nature. This design represents a commitment to thoughtful, sustainable architecture that responds to both the historical roots of Waterloo and its vision for the future.

  • ARCHITECTURE THAT HONOURS COUNTRY AND LOCAL HERITAGE

    The design is rooted in respect for Waterloo’s history and acknowledges the cultural significance of the land.

  • A High-Quality Public Domain

    The heart of the site is an intimate retail plaza, bringing people together with a lively, accessible atmosphere.

  • Active, Safe Pedestrian Access

    The site’s layout encourages walkability and safety, with new pedestrian laneways and activated frontages to create a seamless and inviting experience.

  • Sustainability and Nature

    Existing mature trees are thoughtfully integrated, providing shade, habitat, and beauty throughout. Understory planters and rooftop terraces bring additional greenery, connecting residents and visitors with nature.

  • Optimised Form and Materiality

    The building’s form and materials reflect its multiple uses, designed to optimise space and enhance the urban landscape.

  • Full line Woolworths supermarket

    The new store has been thoughtfully planned to not only meet the current needs of residents but also to anticipate and accommodate the future growth and evolving demands of Waterloo’s vibrant community.

COMMUNITY-CENTRIC DESIGN PRIORITIES

In our extensive consultations with the community, three clear priorities emerged.

Appealing and innovative architecture

Residents sought a distinctive, high-quality design that would serve as a landmark destination.

Sunlight and open-air experience

A layout that maximises natural light and creates an open-air shopping experience was essential to reflect the energy of the neighbourhood.

Green, inviting spaces

A design that prioritises open and green areas was a must, offering a welcoming environment where people can gather, relax, and connect.