Sub Base Platypus

Sub Base Platypus is a community recreation and work hub in North Sydney. The site was commissioned in 1967 as the base for the Royal Australian Navy’s Oberon-class submarines. The Navy chose the name HMAS Platypus due to the similarities between the iconic Australian animal and submarines’ underwater navigation systems.

ASPECT Studios designed the precinct around preserving the site’s history as a torpedo factory, submarine base, and gasworks. Materials have been carefully selected throughout the area to celebrate this heritage while withstanding waterfront conditions and retaining the site’s existing character. Robust, off-form concrete and gabions walls create seating edges, and re-purposed concrete pipe sections are re-interpreted as waterfront seats. Naturally weathering hardwood is used as seating surfaces.

The 2019 AILA Landscape Architecture award-winning project also features a shaded and seated BBQ area with a brick-in Christie barbecue, a pocket playground, and a scenic waterfront promenade. Sub Base Platypus is a storied location where visitors can relax with friends and family on the waterfront

Please click here to view the project video.

Client: Harbour Trust
Designed by: Aspect Studios
Installed by: ICON
Products: 2 X CC2 built-in barbecue cooktops