Public Chess Boards Provide a Sense of Place in Cabramatta

Every day outside a Cabramatta mall in Sydney’s western suburbs, a group of local men gather around two large tables. Most are first generation Australians, and they have come to play Chinese chess.

Public space improvements by Fairfield City Council led to the introduction of sheltered Aria Table Settings with integrated Chess Boards to enhance this local space. Landscape Design Officer for Fairfield City Council, Yura Baek explains –

“The vision was to create a welcoming place where people could pause, reflect and reconnect – while celebrating the area’s cultural roots.

“We wanted the design to feel grounded in the everyday life of the community, offering a place not only for rest, but for conversation, creativity, and a sense of belonging.

“The decision to include chess boards came from what we observed over time. Locals were already making use of the space to play, often bringing their own boards and setting up games on any surface they could find. It felt only natural to support that existing activity in a more permanent way.”

When considering furniture, Baek said “We chose Street Furniture Australia’s Aria Table for its simple, durable design, which worked seamlessly with our custom shade structure. Built in chess boards add a thoughtful touch, reflecting how people already use the space.”

I visit the spot on a chilly Wednesday, as the after-lunch crowd settles in. Those who aren’t playing gather around the tables to watch, and wait their turn to play – encouraging and goading one another.

Council’s placement of Aria table settings acknowledged the existing use of the space.

There are two x 2400mm Aria Table Settings with integrated Chess Boards, one Chinese and one ‘Western’, but I was assured no-one comes here to play Western chess. In fact, they bring their own Chinese chess sets, laying their own boards down on the table. 

Men who didn’t know each other when they started coming to this spot were quickly drawn into the chess playing community. Players arrive as early as 8am, and on weekends they will often come for the whole day.

Baek notes the positive feedback they’ve received about the upgrade. “Locals have mentioned how nice it is to have somewhere to sit, eat or chat – especially in such a central location. It’s become a spot where people of all ages can relax for a moment or connect with others.

“We’re happy to see how the project has been received and how a small change can help support everyday interactions in the town centre.”

Street Furniture Australia can supply integrated Chess Boards with our full range of table settings. Other game boards such as Chinese Chess Boards are available as custom items.

Custom Chinese Chess Board

Cafe Table with Chess Board

Linea Table Setting with Chess Board

Park Table Setting with Chess Board

Credit: Location photos by Eva Shaw.