Allan Border Oval Pavilion

The project brief called for a contemporary, inclusive pavilion to replace ageing facilities on a historically significant site, while respecting the heritage setting and accommodating increased community demand. The challenge was to expand capacity without overwhelming the park, deliver flexible indoor/outdoor functionality, and meet updated accessibility, gender equity, and sustainability standards. The design needed to support multiple user groups simultaneously—from sports clubs to civic gatherings—while reducing maintenance and improving environmental performance over time.

The solution is a compact yet expansive pavilion defined by a singular pitched roof that echoes the form of previous pavilions on the site, while enabling a wide range of contemporary uses. Carefully integrated within the landscape, the building prioritises openness, durability, and performance. A robust concrete podium and breezeway organise circulation, while active edges support program spill-out to the park. Rainwater harvesting, natural ventilation, and rooftop solar support environmental goals. Extensive consultation refined spatial needs and prioritised flexibility, resulting in a low-maintenance, high-use design that can accommodate casual recreation, structured sport, and formal civic events with equal success.

The pavilion has significantly enhanced the social and environmental value of Allan Border Oval. It has become a central gathering place for a wide cross-section of the community, supporting increased female participation in sport and hosting events beyond athletics, including local meetings, celebrations, and memorial services. Environmentally, the project exceeds net-zero energy targets with a solar array that generates twice its usage. Durable materials and passive systems reduce long-term operational costs. As a civic investment, the design offers enduring cultural and economic returns, demonstrating how thoughtful, inclusive architecture can strengthen communities and enhance the usability of shared public assets.

Singular Roof Form: The pavilion’s distinct pitched roof references the site’s historic structures while creating a strong civic identity. Breezeway Spine: A central open-air corridor connects the street to the playing field, enhancing permeability and wayfinding. Durable Materials: Board-formed concrete using recycled Oregon, zinc roofing, and timber cladding ensure longevity and contextual sensitivity. Sustainability: A solar array generates 200% of the building’s energy needs. Rainwater is harvested from the entire roof, stored in underground tanks, and reused for irrigation and amenities. Program Flexibility: Spaces are designed for adaptability, from match-day operations to community meetings, citizenship ceremonies, and play. Accessibility and Equity: The pavilion includes universal amenities and supports increased female and junior sport participation, addressing historic inequities in community facilities. Minimal Footprint: Despite increased capacity, the new building has a smaller footprint than its predecessor, prioritising open public space. Integrated Landscape: The pavilion is embedded into its parkland setting, with active edges spilling out into seating, courts, and pathways.