Mathers Place
Project Details
Point of Difference
Our placemaking work was instrumental in securing 10x the original budget for Mathers place to be an inclusive, people-first urban renewal.
Location
Hobart, Tasmania
Traditional Custodians
Palawa/Pakana People
Client
Hobart City Council
Year
2013
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Context & Place of Vision
Context
Mathers Place, a small but vital precinct in the Hobart CBD, was home to several community organisations but lacked a strong identity and activation. The Hobart City Council engaged Village Well to lead a placemaking strategy, activation plan, and rebranding process to revitalise the precinct. Through a highly collaborative approach, Village Well worked closely with Council and the local community to shape a bold new vision for Mathers Place.
Place of Vision
“A welcoming and inclusive community hub in the heart of Hobart - where people of all ages come together to connect, relax, and celebrate.”
Impact & Result
Impact
Developed a placemaking story, a critical document that helped secure 10x the original project budget and ensured widespread community and Council support.
Formed the Mathers Place Action Team, which became instrumental in project implementation and management.
Provided strategic placemaking, where over 90% of the activations were achieved.
The placemaking strategy transformed Mathers Place into one of Hobart’s most loved community spaces. With a strong new identity, activation strategy, and community-led management model, the precinct has become a thriving social hub, known for its greenery, public art, safe environment, and vibrant programming. The success of the project has set a new benchmark for how community spaces are designed, funded, and activated in Hobart.
Testimonial: “Village Well has provided the community with a ‘green haven’, the placemaking received was critical to the projects success” - Hobart City Council Feedback 2016
