Defined by the dynamic juxtaposition between ARM Architecture’s whimsical, curtain-like concrete facade draped over the main entrance and the airy geometry of the Ryrie Street redevelopment by Studio 101 and Hassell, Geelong Arts Centre's captivating design truly embodies the neighbourhood's unique spirit. This striking edifice rejects the traditional, box-like theatre form, and instead, embraces openness and connection to Geelong's cultural context, paying homage to Victoria's diverse history of travelling performance.
Geelong Arts Centre - Credit Ferne Millen
Inside, the expressive envelope morphs into an intricate tapestry of patterns and colours that draws on the prolific cultural heritage of the Wadawurrung people. Demonstrating profound commitment to collaborative process, ARM Architecture worked closely with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation and local artists to bring First Nations stories to life through the building design itself. Together, the project team explored themes of land, water, sky, and the rich tradition of performance to create a space that invites the visitors on a sensory journey through Country.
GH Commercial was one of the co-creators of this immersive experience. Working in close collaboration with the project team, GH Commercial’s in-house designers conceived a bespoke solution that helped bring the reimagined Geelong Arts Centre to life, and weave the vibrant First Nations’ stories into the very fabric of the complex.
Foyers - Credit Peter Foster
Their ingenious Designer Jet® technology proved integral in expressing the project's unique vision. The ability to inject limitless colours and intricate patterns directly into the carpet pile enabled unparalleled creativity and precision in retelling these ancestral narratives. Evoking the rich reds of the earth, the elusive shimmer of the ocean, and the vast depth of cosmos, this unique custom flooring solution adorns multiple spaces throughout the building, unfolding the captivating chapters of the Wadawurrung story floor by floor.
Drawing on the warm intensity of the Ochre Country theme of the ground floor, GH Commercial’s carpet transforms the Little Malop Street foyer into an immersive artwork. Covering the floor, the walls and the ceiling, the earthy combination of reds and browns brought to life by the Designer Jet® technology generates a grounding cocoon of visual narrative that wraps around the space.
Foyers - Credit Peter Foster
The carpet’s outstanding storytelling potential shines through the middle floor, which represents the Moonah Forest, as well as the fit-out of the 250-seat Story House theatre. Here, the blue shades of the carpet tiles harmonise with cobalt seating and acoustic panelling designed by Gunditjmara Keerray Woorroong artist, Tarryn Love, creating a cohesive interior that evokes the blue expanse of the sea. Higher up, as the visitors journey to level three to explore the celestial themes of Sky Country and Night Sky Country, the carpet tiles bring to life an abstract rendition of Bunjil, often depicted as a wedge-tailed eagle.
The alluring storytelling of the carpet’s colour palette is further enhanced by its innovative, unusual format. GH Commercial’s developed a unique 1x1 metre tile, which – while uncommon in size – creates a visually striking installation perfectly suited to the Centre's dynamic spaces.
Foyers - Credit Peter Foster
Naturally, GH Commercial's commitment to the project extends beyond aesthetics – the company also supports some of Geelong Arts Centre's most vital initiatives, like 'The Church Giving Campaign' and the 'Name A Seat Campaign.' These programs are crucial in providing pathways for local talent development and fostering accessible performance experiences. By actively supporting them GH Commercial demonstrates their belief that true social responsibility involves championing the arts at all levels.
In addition, GH Commercial's carpet tiles are made in Geelong – local production underscores the region’s rich manufacturing heritage and aligns with the project’s broader sustainability aspirations. Designed to minimise their carbon footprint, the products are also Declare Red List Free certified, showcasing GH Commercial’s unwavering dedication to creating a healthier built environment. These essential qualities support the region’s ambition to foster a sustainable, creative future, positioning Geelong – a UNESCO City of Design – not only as a thriving hub for art and culture, but an urban leader in driving positive environmental and social impact.
Dressing Room - Credit John Gollings
The revitalised Geelong Arts Centre isn’t just Australia's biggest complex of this kind – this wonderful space heralds a new era for arts and culture Down Under. A vibrant and immersive monument to the power of collaborative design, the Geelong Arts Centre is more than a building; it's a place where First Nations heritage is celebrated, where sustainable innovation and tradition converge, and where community gathers to experience the transformative power of art.
