Eastern Freeway Extension

The concept for sound barriers to the Eastern Freeway Extension is one continuous scheme made up of a series of interconnected arcs that read in series, forming a complete architectural sculpture. The height and location of these shapes are positioned in direct response to acoustic requirements, the roadway and the proximity of adjacent buildings and landforms. The final contextual reading of the design is with the landscape.

The ideas behind the design are threefold. Firstly, its impact is of one complete architectonic sculpture. Then, for vehicular traffic, it forms a sensuous ribbon specific to this stretch of freeway. Finally, the relationship of sculptural form and landscape provides a stimulating environment for passive activity away from and in contrast to the traffic. The walls move gently through, around, and in front of mounding and landscape, creating a harmonious visual experience.

Wood Marsh was engaged by VicRoads to design the aesthetic elements of the widening and extension of the existing Eastern Freeway. The scope of design included the generation of concepts for pedestrian and vehicular bridges, noise walls, retaining walls, shared pathways and substantial earth mounding. Wood Marsh had an active role in overseeing the documentation and construction of the project, including the landscape design which was undertaken by Tract.