As Queensland prepares to host the 2032 Olympic Games, the cities' and regions' public spaces are set for a transformation that extends well beyond the four weeks of competition. The Games present a unique opportunity to redefine outdoor infrastructure, ensuring that boardwalks, bridges, shade structures, and play elements not only enhance the Olympic experience but also serve as a lasting legacy for residents long into the future.

This article is the first in a series exploring how outdoor structures strategically imbedded in the urban fabric will shape Queensland's Olympic and post-Olympic landscape.

Enhancing Pedestrian Connections

With thousands of spectators moving between venues, well-designed pedestrian infrastructure will be a critical element to consider. Boardwalks and bridges will form key links between stadiums, public transport hubs, and communal gathering areas, ensuring smooth and accessible movement across the city. These structures will not only serve as functional transit routes but also as landmarks that contribute to Brisbane’s identity.

By integrating observation decks and seating areas along these pathways, Brisbane can create spaces that encourage visitors to linger, interact, and take in the city’s riverfront and urban landscapes. Thoughtfully designed pedestrian routes will make the Olympic precincts more engaging while reinforcing Brisbane’s reputation as a walkable, liveable city. Crucially, these connections will continue to serve Brisbane’s residents long after the Games, fostering active transport and improving daily commutes.

The Importance of Shade Structures

Despite Brisbane’s typically mild winter, the city’s climate means that shade structures will remain essential for comfort. Outdoor seating areas, viewing platforms, and walking trails should incorporate natural and built shade solutions, such as tree-lined pathways, ornate pergolas, and bespoke arbour structures.

These shaded zones will not only offer protection from sun exposure, they serve as a golden opportunity to also act as wayfinding elements - enhancing the overall experience of the Games. In the long term, they will serve as valuable community assets, ensuring public spaces remain comfortable and functional year-round. By embedding thoughtful shading solutions into Olympic precincts, Brisbane can create enduring public realms that remain attractive and accessible for decades to come.

Play Structures and Recreational Spaces

While playgrounds will still have a role in Brisbane’s Olympic public spaces, they will be part of a broader network of recreational infrastructure. Integrating play structures into walking routes and green spaces will create more dynamic environments that cater to all ages. Elevated play structures can serve as wayfinding elements, while interactive elements can provide moments of engagement along key pedestrian corridors.

More broadly, flexible outdoor spaces - such as open plazas, amphitheatres, and event-friendly pavilions - will ensure that Brisbane’s Olympic investments continue to benefit the community long after the Games conclude. These spaces can host markets, performances, and community gatherings, reinforcing their long-term value beyond the Olympic timeframe. By designing for adaptability, Brisbane can ensure that Olympic infrastructure remains relevant and actively used for generations.

The 2032 Brisbane Olympics present an unparalleled opportunity to enhance the city’s public realm. By prioritising pedestrian connections, integrating effective shade structures, and designing multi-functional spaces, Brisbane can ensure that its Olympic infrastructure serves both visitors and residents for decades to come. The Games will be a moment in time, but the urban transformation they inspire will shape the city’s future well beyond 2032.

Stay tuned for the next article in this series, where we will delve deeper into how Brisbane can maximise the social and environmental benefits of its Olympic infrastructure.