Devonport Surf Lifesaving Club

Devonport, Tasmania

Status :

Completion 2011

Photography :

Brett Boardman

The Devonport Surf Life Saving Club has been an important community institution since 1927.  It is a focal point for the local community, and its redevelopment was the first project delivered by Devonport City Council from the Urban Design Framework for the Mersey Bluff.

Jaws Architects’ innovative design for the new club carefully considered the importance of this community space to local people, and its coastal setting. The bold, sculptural structure reflects the dynamic qualities of the local coastal environment and connects strongly with its setting and proximity to the dramatic Mersey Bluff on the foreshore reserve.

Two distinct pavilions were designed—one to contain the surf club and another to accommodate new restaurant and café facilities, with a shared foyer space. Each pavilion is wrapped in an aluminium skin, with flowing roof forms evoking the sense of waves in motion. The new building has the sophistication to meet evolving public expectations, while securing the future of the surf club—a highly valued community asset for the Devonport area.