Batemans Bay Marina Cafe

The brief called for a multi-function marina in Batemans Bay on the south coast of NSW, that would include a boat workshop, cafe, kitchen and offices. Our idea, rather than build a completely new marina, was to dismantle and repurpose an existing boatshed 500km up the coast in Sydney. The generous height and repetitive steel truss structure provided the flexibility required for the project. It was decided to reclad the existing structure in a mix of warm marine plywood panels and cool basalt grey steel panels. The roof consists of a double layer of corrugated plastic sheeting and expanded steel mesh, camouflaging the roof by day but transforming the building into an inviting lantern by night. Internally a series of prefabricated plywood 'pods' provide spaces for kitchens, bathrooms and offices.

A large open-air community pavilion with a sloped metal roof, situated near a pond with rocks. People are sitting inside at tables, some are walking or cycling outside the pavilion, and a few children and adults are near the entrance.

View from the north east of riverfront open space.

A modern, two-story building with a metal and wood exterior, surrounded by a fence and greenery, with people walking nearby.

View from south west showing plywood panelling and roof form

Aerial view of a coastal city showing houses, a marina, beaches, and a large body of water.
Interior of a building with large windows, a table with boxes, a heater, and some fabric or tarp on the floor, suggesting it might be under construction or renovation.

The original boatshed before dismantling

3D wireframe architectural drawing of a modern building with a large, sloped roof, glass walls, and an outdoor deck with walkways and people.

Axonometric of remodelled boasted