Jury comment
River Quay is part of a new dining and recreation development at the southern end of the Southbank precinct in Brisbane. It enjoys a wonderful location on the riverbank, facing north with a direct view to the CBD skyline. Although small in size and integrated with a number of new restaurant and cafe pavilions, it provides a much needed new green space in a city where there is a paucity of parkland. Its understated form of grassed embankments and terraces facilitates both informal and formal or programmed activities. The key gesture of an elegant sweep in the pedestrian boulevard away from the river and in front of the dining areas sets up a series of gestures abstracting “tidelines.” Particularly successful are the new terraces offering passive views over the river and the city skyline, and the broad flat lawn where children can play under easy observation. This has quickly become a very popular part of Southbank. Where it might easily have been overworked, it shows an elegant restraint that capitalizes on the waterfront, aspect and prospect.
