Urban Choreography: Central Melbourne, 1985-

Despite a very substantial architecture and urban heritage, Melbourne in the mid 1980s was experiencing a flight to the suburbs and becoming a rather dull city that closed on evenings and weekends. While many challenges remain, the incremental transformation of central Melbourne is now a global success story that needs to be better studied.

This is not one story but many- the design of new architecture and public space reclaimed from cars and rail yards; from turning its back on the water, Melbourne has integrated the river and become a waterfront city. It has grown greener-literally, environmentally and politically. Laneways that were once filled with garbage are now filled with 'hidden' bars, artworks, housing and urban art.