A densely planted, multi-layered, and continuously flowering space for people, art and performance, Laak Boorndap will be at the centre of the Melbourne Arts Precinct and will create more space for nature in our city. 

The Test Garden at Skyline Car Park in Fed Square is a place of experimentation and learning, giving visitors a taste of the naturalistic planting style planned for Laak Boorndap. As a window into what is to come, the garden incorporates both native and introduced species. The dense, multi-layered planting design thrives and flowers at different times throughout the year, creating a beautiful, ever-changing experience for visitors. 

The Test Garden is open to the public all year round – and horticulturists, ecologists, landscape designers and artists are regularly invited to share insights into design ethos, research findings and biodiversity. 

You can view the plant list for the Test Garden here, and explore upcoming events here.

A top down map of the Fed Square precint. It highlights, Flinder Street, Swanston Street, Birrarung Marr Walk and Russell Street Extension. The Main Square, Zinc, The Edge, Transport and ACMI are all locations that are featured on the map.

Presented by: MAP Co 
Sustainability partner: Bupa
Design: Hassell in partnership with Super Bloom, James Hitchmough and Nigel Dunnett
Plant supplier: Arbornet
Construction: Colombo Design Partnership
Research partner: University of Melbourne, Burnley Campus
Image credits: Sarah Pannell

Image Gallery

A close up of colourful flowers and plants along a white stone path in the Test Garden at Fed Square.
Sun shining on flowers in the Test Garden at Fed Square with city buildings in the background.
Close up of colourful flowers and plants in the Test Garden at Fed Square.
A close up photos of yellow flowers in the Test Garden at Fed Square.
Close-up of purple flowers in the Test Garden at Fed Square.
Lots of purple and red flowers in the Test Garden at Fed Square.
A white stone path through the Test Garden at Fed Square, lined with colourful flowers and green plants.