Snow Gum B | Water-Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) and Specialist Aquatic Planting Focus
Snow Gum B is a benchmark project in integrated Water-Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD), transforming an underutilised urban landscape into a self-sustaining, ecologically functional system. Located at Northern Memorial Park in Glenroy, Victoria, the design utilises water as a fundamental tool for landscape resilience, biodiversity enhancement, and long-term sustainability.
The core of the project is an engineered swale system, modelled in 3D using Rhino Grasshopper for accurate hydrological simulation. This system captures stormwater runoff from surrounding precincts and directs it through a series of interconnected low points, designed to retain and slowly infiltrate water across the site. These gentle earth forms eliminate the need for conventional irrigation infrastructure, establishing a passive watering network that responds dynamically to seasonal rainfall.
A key innovation is the use of specialist aquatic and wetland planting within these retention zones. Carefully selected native species—including sedges, rushes, and groundcovers—are strategically planted to optimise water filtration, improve soil stability, and create rich microhabitats. This vegetative layer functions as a living water treatment system, naturally improving water quality while fostering diverse ecosystems.
The WSUD strategy is not isolated—it actively interconnects Tree Protection Zones (TPZs), reinforcing habitat corridors for endemic species and protecting significant River Red Gums, while integrating with the site’s larger hydrological functions in Northern Memorial Park in Glenroy. This ecological stitching elevates the site from a functional drainage solution to a thriving, biodiverse landscape.
Importantly, the design avoids hard infrastructure. Instead, it prioritises soft engineering solutions: earth shaping, native revegetation, and natural hydrological processes. This approach delivers environmental performance alongside visual and experiential benefits, cooling the microclimate, supporting wildlife, and creating a serene, green space for passive use.
Specialist WSUD Features & Services:
- Advanced 3D hydrological modelling and landform simulation using Rhino Grasshopper.
- Integrated swale network for passive stormwater management and retention.
- Specialist aquatic and wetland planting strategy for filtration, habitat creation, and soil health.
- Minimal-impact earth shaping to guide water flow and support vegetation.
- Ecological connectivity through linking TPZs and habitat corridors
- Self-sustaining passive irrigation system eliminating mechanical dependency.
- Enhanced biodiversity outcomes with native and aquatic species palette.
- Long-term operational efficiency through low-maintenance landscape solutions.
- Contribution to urban cooling and microclimate resilience.
Owner: GMCT (Greater Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust)- Northern Memorial Park
Design: Hamed Tavakoli (Meso Space)
Project Timeline: 2023–2024 (Construction Phase)
