GLM1: First Nations Artwork Integration and Wayfinding

Melbourne’s public housing towers haven’t aged well. We identified the urgent need for an integrated design solution that not only enhanced the aesthetics of the neighbourhood, but revitalised relationships within the local community. With construction works already commencing and new residents due to move in at the start of 2024, we were engaged to work closely with Icon to deliver a wayfinding and artwork integration solution. Our aim? To foster a sense of belonging amongst new residents, whilst inspiring deeper connections with each other and the places we call home.

At Little Rocket, we prioritise genuine collaboration and meaningful engagement throughout all our work. Over the course of a year, we led an extensive co-design process with First Nations artists, designers, Traditional Owners and stakeholders. Together, we built a detailed artwork integration and wayfinding strategy, ensuring all protocols outlined by Interpretation Australia and the International Indigenous Design Charter were upheld. Our vision was site-responsive, working closely with artists and Traditional Owners from Wurundjeri and Bunurong Country to integrate their stories. These were applied throughout the built environment through internal and external wayfinding, murals, digital interpretation, playgrounds, vinyl decals and more.

The GLM1 project delivered over 1,000 new, energy-efficient homes to Victorians, with a majority dedicated to social housing. The well-considered artwork and wayfinding systems installed across the three sites – Flemington, Brighton and Prahran – helped create a culturally inclusive, accessible and safe space for residents to navigate. We ensured meticulous compliance with Australian and International design accessibility standards, while carefully considering materiality, maintenance and budget limitations. All signage types were designed to ensure individual panels could be easily replaced if damaged, using an innovative locking-pin solution.