The Cannery

EK Nominees
Rosebery

McBean & Co Design was engaged to introduce activation strategies within the existing local centre, strengthening its identity and enhancing customer engagement. The objective was to animate blank walls, refresh furniture and shape an environment that authentically reflected the local community while supporting retailers operating across both day and evening trade.

Artwork was introduced to soften and enrich previously underutilised surfaces, creating visual interest and reinforcing the precinct’s character. Furniture upgrades improved comfort and dwell time, encouraging customers to linger and supporting hospitality operators with a more inviting public realm.

Honouring the site’s history as the former Rosella canning factory, and the native rosellas that inhabit the area, small bird installations were integrated throughout the exterior as a subtle community treasure hunt. This layer of storytelling encouraged exploration, repeat visitation and a deeper emotional connection to place.

The result was a thoughtful activation strategy that strengthened identity, increased engagement and supported retailer performance through atmosphere and narrative.