Studio Workshop Architects were engaged to develop a new masterplan vision for the Paga Hill foreshore in Port Moresby, creating a framework that celebrates the site’s unique coastal setting while strengthening its connection to the surrounding community. The project sought to establish the foreshore as a vibrant civic destination that reflects the character, identity and cultural richness of Papua New Guinea, while also supporting future growth and tourism opportunities within the city.

Central to the masterplan approach was a strong emphasis on community engagement and public activation. The design explored opportunities to create welcoming public spaces that encourage gathering, recreation and cultural exchange, ensuring the foreshore could be enjoyed by both residents and visitors alike. A series of interconnected plazas, shaded walkways and landscaped waterfront spaces were envisioned to improve accessibility and strengthen the relationship between the city and the harbour edge.

The proposal also focused on introducing a range of new points of interest throughout the precinct, including cultural destinations, event spaces, viewing platforms and hospitality venues that would activate the waterfront throughout the day and evening. These elements were carefully integrated within the broader landscape to create a memorable and engaging public realm while maintaining strong visual and physical connections to the coastline.

A key objective of the project was to enhance and celebrate the already strong Papua New Guinean culture embedded within the site and the wider community. The masterplan drew inspiration from local traditions, materials and patterns, incorporating opportunities for art, storytelling and cultural expression throughout the public spaces. By embedding these cultural references into the architecture and landscape, the vision for the Paga Hill foreshore aimed to create an authentic destination that reflects the identity and spirit of Papua New Guinea while contributing positively to the future of Port Moresby. Central to the masterplan approach was a strong emphasis on community engagement and public activation. The design explored opportunities to create welcoming public spaces that encourage gathering, recreation and cultural exchange, ensuring the foreshore could be enjoyed by both residents and visitors alike. A series of interconnected plazas, shaded walkways and landscaped waterfront spaces were envisioned to improve accessibility and strengthen the relationship between the city and the harbour edge.