Colour, softness and thoughtful planning create an innovative, immersive space for carers and children.
QIC (Queensland Investment Corporation)
Builder - Bloc Constructions
Located within the North Quarter renovation, this Parents Room at the Canberra Centre transforms an extremely constrained leftover space into a welcoming, fully inclusive amenity for parents, carers and children of all genders, identities and abilities. Slotted between retail tenancies, an office tower, existing amenities and a mezzanine plant room, the room required significant structural and services coordination to unlock every possible millimetre of usable area. Within this tight footprint, colour and curved forms establish clear zones and soften the geometry, creating a playful yet refined environment that feels generous, intuitive and memorable for families.
A layered interior experience unfolds within the room, moving from playful colour in the children’s areas to the gentle calm of the feeding rooms. Soft blue tones, low lighting and acoustic materials create quiet, retreat‑like spaces for feeding, offering parents a soothing counterpoint to the energy of the shopping centre. The nappy‑change and kitchenette zone is animated by a custom mural painted by Nikki Butlin, with hanging mobiles that provide distraction and delight for children. Throughout, arcs and curves frame key thresholds and joinery elements, bringing coherence to the oddly shaped footprint and elevating everyday tasks through thoughtful, family‑centred design
Photography by Tim Shaw
Photography By Tim Shaw
Photography By Tim Shaw
Photography By Tim Shaw
Photography By Tim Shaw
Photography By Tim Shaw
Taking cues from early childhood learning, the space is conceived as a ‘third teacher’, using colour, form and play to foster confidence, belonging and ease. Plywood elements are treated like oversized building blocks, with play panels embedded at low level to invite independence and interaction. Overhead, a translucent acrylic ceiling installation creates a cloud-like moment that lifts the experience and adds softness to the room. Inclusivity is built into the planning and amenities from the outset, including a fully accessible change station and accessible kitchen facilities that support a wide range of carers and children.
Sustainability is supported through longevity in a high‑use public amenity. Hardwearing, easy‑care materials and considered detailing were prioritised to reduce ongoing maintenance and replacement, helping the room perform well over time within a busy shopping centre environment.
Materials were selected to balance playfulness with durability, creating an immersive and memorable experience that can withstand constant use. Soft surfaces and acoustic finishes support calm feeding rooms, while plywood joinery, integrated play elements and robust finishes deliver tactile engagement and long‑term practicality across the wider space.
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