The design considers how a new relationship between the community and the sea can be facilitated through a vertically rising architectural form and a cantilever. The programs are organised in a strong east to west connection between the city and the water’s edge along a main spine, which branches elevationally outwards in response to the planted railway (revitalised through the urban masterplan). From the higher topography the main access to the site is down a sloping ramp and staircase from Milsons Point station to a podium level, which offers seaside views before descending down into the public courtyard and straight to the water.

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The function of spaces are organised so that the main gallery is elevated along the edge of the waterfront while the studio cantilevers towards the water. The studio workshops are directly connected to these spaces allowing the public to view the artists at work. The living and artist retreat areas have access to the gallery through a semi private bridge, and the two towers share a glass bridge that connects the main communal levels. The design aims to integrate the internal spaces with its context (waterfront) and landscape (railway/  sloped topography) through a layered sequencing of movement, opening and folding.