Brown and Hercules Streets, Ashfield

Known for its busy dining scene and strong Chinese-Australian identity, Brown and Hercules Streets in Ashfield, Sydney, have undergone a streetscape upgrade that introduces new planting, seating and public infrastructure. Led by Inner West Council, the project aims to create a more attractive and welcoming environment for residents, visitors and local businesses.

A central design move to express place identity was the use of custom laser-cutting on Linea Planters along Brown Street (next to Ashfield Station). The graphic and typographic features the magpie or Djarrawunang—the Gadigal and Wangal name for the magpie and a traditional name associated with the Ashfield Ward. The gesture links the streetscape to local First Nations heritage while establishing a distinct visual identity for the precinct.

“The project aims to improve the vibrancy and safety of public spaces and local streets, while the piece (custom laser-cut Linea Planter) serves as a link between the land’s ancient history and its modern community.” a Council spokesperson said.

Linea Planters on Hercules Street further reinforce the precinct’s new visual identity. Groupings of large square planters at varied heights are strategically positioned to create focal points along the street. Responding to the site’s slope, custom leg heights ensure a consistent appearance throughout. Their larger scale also gives horticulturalists greater flexibility in selecting plant species of varying sizes and suited to different growing conditions.›

Beyond their visual contribution, the planters were designed to support long-term landscape performance. Integrated wicking beds store and reuse water, reducing maintenance requirements while helping to sustain healthy, resilient planting—addressing one of Council’s key project objectives.

The furniture colour palette was carefully chosen to reflect Ashfield’s identity as a multicultural suburb. Pioneer Red is used as a unifying tone, complemented by aluminium woodgrain Bush Cherry battens that bring warmth and contrast to the streetscape while reflecting the cultural influence of the area’s well-established Chinese community.

The Council notes that the combination of planter boxes, street furniture and vibrant greenery has helped transform the corridor into a more attractive and pedestrian-friendly environment.

By enhancing this public space, Inner West Council seeks to create a special destination where locals and visitors will come to eat, stay and play.