NSW
Newcastle
The original Mangrove Creek facilities were lost in the Three Mile Fire in 2019. Central Coast Council reached out to Slater Architects with a brief was to redesign and recreate the Mangrove Creek Dam Visitor Centre, incorporating a new interactive visitor education centre, accessible amenities, picnic shelters and a children’s play area.
The design encourages insight into the natural environment, cultural heritage and highlights important components of the Central Coast’s water supply system. The design of the visitor centre comprises of a feature butterfly roof that is angled in 2 directions to embrace the views and orientation towards the dam.
Materials have been selected to reflect the natural environment and provide longevity and include natural finishes such as rammed earth, polished concrete, plywood, timber look screens, black steel and framing. The amenities building and picnic shelters have been designed with a similar aesthetic to provide a cohesive built form.
The new Mangrove Creek Dam Visitor Centre enhances our educational and operational capabilities by providing an interactive education centre that deepens visitors’ understanding of the natural environment, cultural heritage, and water supply system of the Central Coast. The design, featuring a distinctive butterfly roof, maximizes views and fosters a connection with the dam. For the community, the design delivers accessible amenities, picnic shelters, and a children’s play area, creating spaces for both recreation and reflection. Integrating indigenous cultural elements, such as the laser-cut screen and playground features, ensures the facility resonates culturally and enriches the community’s connection to their heritage.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
