RPAC Piazza

A FORECOURT FOR PERFORMANCE, CEREMONY AND GATHERING

Overview

The Redland Performing Arts Centre (RPAC) is one of Queensland’s premier venues, renowned for its pristine acoustics and diverse performances spanning music, theatre, and family entertainment. However, outside of showtimes, this cultural landmark is underutilised as a public space. To enhance RPAC's connection with the community, the addition of a welcoming piazza at its forecourt entrance offers a dedicated place for gatherings, creative events, and a central meeting spot for show attendees.

Strategy

Redland City Council envisioned this transformed space hosting a coffee van, outdoor art displays, and free live music, fostering a lively atmosphere year-round. Prioritising accessibility, comfort, and an improved entry experience, the design encourages consistent community use.

Our approach created an outdoor piazza with subtropical landscaping, integrating RPAC with the streetscape and drawing passersby toward the venue. Since the building is set back from the street, seating near the front of the piazza invites visitors to engage with street activities, while additional seating around the piazza's edges opens up the center for events. A trellis structure equipped with lighting and AV capabilities supports a range of activities, while a small pop-up stage enhances versatility.

Subtropical plantings around the trellis complement the local landscape, adding shade, breeze, and a sense of connection to RPAC’s location in the Redlands.

Outcome

The new piazza activates RPAC’s forecourt, transforming it into a community hub that extends beyond showtimes. With space for light projections, art installations, a coffee stand, and live performances, the piazza redefines RPAC as a vibrant destination. The structure harmonises RPAC’s architecture with its surroundings, offering a welcoming courtyard for eventgoers.

Intuitive pathways guide visitors from the street to RPAC’s entrances, creating a smooth and inviting entry sequence. This revitalised space seamlessly connects the street, piazza, and RPAC, establishing a new community focal point.

Project Summary

Completed: 2023

Client: Redland City Council

Renders: Kin Creatives