JCB, Site Office and AW Maritime’s design for the 53 million dollar St Kilda Pier Redevelopment exemplifies design excellence through clear prioritisation of public interest, delivering a generous and resilient civic place for one of Victoria’s most cherished coastal destinations. The new pier enhances recreation, amenity, access and safety while protecting the ecological values underpinning its significance, including the Little Penguin colony.

The design is deeply place-led and responsive to context, drawing from St Kilda’s maritime history, coastal conditions and cultural identity. Clever re-alignment of the pier has achieved transformative outcomes at both ends; reclaiming the foreshore for a pedestrianised forecourt and a dynamic seating terrace at the breakwater. Tactile materials and curved geometries reinforce local character while responding to wind, waves and movement.

Ecological protection and stewardship of the bay environment is embedded throughout, ensuring human activity coexists responsibly with habitat. The project delivers long-term transformation through a 50-year design life, climate-resilient elevation, wave mitigation and adaptable infrastructure that addresses sea level rise, extreme weather and growing visitation – key urban challenges facing Australia’s coastal cities.

The result is a compelling urban infrastructure project that communicates its civic value and sets a benchmark for regenerative coastal design in Australia.

Photography: Peter Clarke