Case Studies 

Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

*Nominee 

Jewell of Brunswick

Brunswick

Australia

Contributed by 
Project for Public Spaces
 on 
August 13, 2015
May 1, 2024

What makes it Great?

Why it doesn't work?

From small beginnings, a simple street party in Brunswick, Australia, has led to significant public space transformations. In 2014, after a successful event in which a portion of Wilson Avenue was closed to cars for one day, the Better Block program spearheaded a pop-up park initiative in the same neighborhood, closing the area off to cars for eight weeks. During this time, the organization worked with the community on DIY seating and a street mural, along with the planning of several events, activities, performances, and workshops. Attracting all kinds of visitors, the space soon became a neighborhood destination and urban refuge.

Following the program's success, Moreland City Council conducted a public consultation for the future of Wilson Ave, receiving 356 submissions, 94% of which supported implementing a permanent public space at the site. Given this overwhelming interest, planning soon began, and funding for the project came from City Hall, the Victorian Government Community Crime Prevention Program as well as a grant from Melbourne Water-- together totaling $760,000 AUD. The final plan consisted of grass mounds, trees, seating, bike racks, lighting, as well as a climbing wall (a suggestion by 84% of public engagement participants). The space, called the “Jewell of Brunswick,” opened in the summer of 2015. Including events and activities such as small markets, food trucks, and cultural performances, the site is maintained and managed by City Council. 

Access & Linkages

Comfort & Image

Uses & Activities

Sociability

How Light?

How Quick?

How Cheap?

History & Background

Related Links & Sources

Photo credits, from left: Better BlockBetter BlockMoreland GreensArlene SachonBetter Block, Delima Shanti via TimeOut 

Follow Better Block

Website: betterblock.org

Facebook: facebook.com/BetterBlock

Twitter: @thebetterblock

Follow Moreland City Council

Website: moreland.vic.gov.au

Facebook: facebook.com/morelandcitycouncil

Twitter: @morelandcouncil

Jewell of Brunswick
Jewell of Brunswick
Jewell of Brunswick
Jewell of Brunswick
From a pop-up park to permanent public space, fit with a new climbing wall
Jewell of Brunswick
Enjoying this new public space
Jewell of Brunswick
Dance party at the Jewell of Brunswick
Jewell of Brunswick
Community-driven Placemaking
Jewell of Brunswick
A simple street party inspired the first pop-up park

*Please note that these Hall of Shame nominations were written in a moment in time (most over a decade ago) and likely have since changed or even been transformed. If the above entry is now great, or still not so great, go ahead and comment below on how it has evolved or nominate it as a great place.

NOMINATE A PLACE

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