Architects appointed for Batemans Bay aquatic and arts centre

Sydney-based NBRS Architecture has been appointed to design the new Batemans Bay Regional Aquatic, Arts and Leisure Centre at Mackay Park.

The firm, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary, has extensive experience in creating inviting spaces that serve communities. It is partnering with Donovan Payne Architects, specialists in aquatic and sporting facilities, to design the facility.

Past recent NBRS projects include the award-winning Murray Art Museum in Albury, refurbishment of the Ruth Everuss Aquatic Centre in Auburn, the Hillsong Epicentre Studio in Baulkham Hills and the Taronga Institute of Science and Learning.

NBRS Architecture Principal Andrew Tripet said NBRS was passionate about human-centred design.

“We’re intensely interested in community and society, and particularly how people gather, react and enjoy public spaces,” he said.

“We’re really excited to be working on this project. We want this centre to have a distinct Batemans Bay feel.”

User groups of the facility will be invited to participate in focus groups with the architects later this month so their needs can be reflected in the final design.

The 96 groups include local sporting clubs, arts groups, community groups and associations, the business sector, schools, swimming groups, health and disability groups and other identified users.

The wider community will be encouraged to have a say in the final design once concepts are finalised, which are expected by January 2019.

In the meantime, those keen to provide input on how they envisage using the facility can submit their thoughts by emailing them to [email protected] by Wednesday 31 October.