ASPECT Studios appointed Principal Design Consultant for memorial park development in Harkness
The Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (GMCT) is excited to announce ASPECT Studios as the Principal Design Consultant for the upcoming memorial park development at Harkness, located in Melbourne’s west.
A foundation for the future ASPECT Studios will work alongside GMCT and a team of industry experts to shape the memorial park’s first stage of development. Their efforts will build upon the existing multi-staged master plan, early design work, and extensive feedback gathered from the local community, Traditional Owners, and stakeholders.
Known for their award-winning international design practice specialising in landscape architecture, ASPECT Studios bring over 30 years of experience, including city precinct, community park and memorial space projects.
“GMCT is delighted to partner with ASPECT Studios for this crucial phase of the project. Their extensive expertise and people-centred approach will help us lay a strong foundation, establishing the memorial park as a meaningful and inclusive destination for all.”
- James Reid, GMCT’s Chief Built Environment Officer
“We are honoured to be working with The Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (GMCT) and Wurundjeri – Woi Wurrung representatives to deliver this transformational project. The opportunity to be part of the Harkness story — to help imagine and deliver the transformation of a farm paddock into one of Australia’s leading cemeteries —is extremely exciting. It presents both a fascinating design challenge and an opportunity to make a significant contribution to the community and restore the Arnolds Creek corridor environment.
GMCT have been on this journey for some time, and it is a real privilege to be trusted to join them in creating a place that meets the needs of the cemetery, Indigenous Australians, and the broader community in nearby Melton.”
- Kirsten Bauer, Global Design Director
ASPECT Studios is also leading the Traditional Owner engagement for this project, strengthening and extending our design that aims to honour Traditional Owner knowledge by embracing principles of Designing with Country and Caring for Country, while exploring sustainable practices such as using local materials and suppliers.
This initial phase of development will focus on landscaping, road and building configuration, as well as essential infrastructure - including burial and memorial areas, a multi-use administration and events building, and parking facilities.
Towards breaking ground in 2025
In the coming months, GMCT and ASPECT Studios will collaborate to finalise the detailed designs for the establishment of the memorial park, with construction anticipated to begin by mid-2025.
