Origin Terrace

In 2008 Ian Barker & Associates (now Ian Barker Garden Design) were approached by Patio to construct a balcony & rooftop garden at 271 Collins Street, home of the Origin Energy Customer Service Centre. While the group does not usually take on commercial projects, the opportunity was too good to be missed & so we agreed to the challenge. The garden faces Flinders Lane & Elizabeth Street and is over 600 metres square, and the biggest challenges to overcome were the OH & S and logistical issues involved in hoisting all our materials up seven floors using a crane. This required temporarily shutting down Flinders Lane and ensuring every single item (including people!) was secure so that nothing was blown off by the wind.

Inspired by the growing trend for green spaces within urban centres, the concrete rooftop was transformed into a contemporary urban oasis that embraces sustainable principles. The balcony services the needs of the 3000 Origin Energy call centre staff and doubles as an area to hold outdoor events. In addition to these social activities, the act of 'greenifying' an inner city rooftop yields benefits to our environment and to those working in the concrete jungle that are immeasurable.

Ian Barker & Associates is proud to have been involved in such a challenging project and supports the responsible greening of our cities and urban areas.