Heritage Council Plaques Design Framework

Creative Spaces worked with the Heritage Council of Western Australia to develop a cohesive design framework for heritage plaques marking places of cultural and historical significance. The project aimed to refresh how heritage is recognised in public spaces, with a strong focus on amplifying Aboriginal voices and perspectives.

The brief called for a plaque system that was distinctive, respectful and adaptable across different sites. Drawing inspiration from traditional heritage markers used internationally, the design reinterprets familiar forms through a contemporary Australian lens. Respected Aboriginal elder and artist Dr Richard Walley contributed to the visual language, ensuring cultural expression was central rather than symbolic.

Throughout the process, Creative Spaces prioritised meaningful engagement with Aboriginal stakeholders and cultural advisers. Design decisions were guided by respect for cultural protocols and the need for clarity, durability and consistency in public settings.

The resulting plaques are both functional and expressive. They support public understanding of heritage while embedding cultural stories into everyday environments. The framework sets a new standard for heritage recognition, ensuring plaques do more than mark a place and instead help people understand why it matters.

Images provided by the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage