Project Albert Park

Project Albert Park was a full rebuild of an existing architectural outdoor space.

I hear this all the time from architects: “Let the decking grey off.” While the weathered look might appeal to some, it’s important to remember that decking still requires maintenance — and that means oiling. The original deck had never been oiled, and in a shady, damp environment, it didn’t stand a chance. It failed in just a few years.

We rebuilt the entire deck from the ground up.

The old built-in seating was removed and replaced with a streamlined steel-framed bench, hidden within the wall and under the deck structure. This created a floating effect, with the seat beautifully wrapped in Spotted Gum decking.

A new timber screen was also added to conceal the tired boundary fence. It was clad in vertical Spotted Gum battens to tie in with the rest of the space.

Though compact, this backyard now feels open, clean and cohesive — a small space with a big impact.