This outstanding building has established a new benchmark in design of research laboratory workplaces at the University of Queensland.
Jury Citation – Award for Public Architecture
Queensland Brain Institute
This vivid research facility becomes a theatre of the mind.
Our winning competition design is driven by the idea of this building being a theatre for research - a dynamic and colourful experience that celebrates and reveals the collaborative research environment of this world class institution.
Housed within the one building is a diverse collection of the scientific community all focused on the workings of the human brain. Included within the twenty-six different disciplines are chemists, cardiologists, neurologists and psychiatrists.
The building’s curved main campus road edge alludes to the drama within whilst the other southern edge aligns and connects carefully back into the rhythm of the existing university buildings.
We pursue the idea that fostering and nurturing the collaboration across these fields is therefore fundamental to the buildings’ performance. Our architecture – the form, circulation routes, glazing, colour and materiality - is carefully designed to create this research theatre.
Like a stage set, this facility is strategically planned with the research activity visibility emphasised and revealed across the building and between laboratories and offices.
From the first point of entry the laboratories are on display, while circulation paths become lively promenades attached to informal conversation spaces and with views into the research activities.
A specially commissioned art work “Out of Mind” by Fiona Hall interprets the work of the research teams and extends across the full height of the main atrium space.
- Traditional Custodians The Turrbal and Yuggera people
- Client University of Queensland
- Collaborators Wardle joint venture with Wilson Architects
- Location Brisbane, Queensland
- Procurement Design Competition
- Project Duration 2004 – 2007
- Floor Levels 7 floors plus plant level
- Floor Area 11,500 sqm
- Selected Awards
- National Commendation for Interior Architecture, RAIA National Architecture Awards 2008
- Brisbane region Building of the Year, RAIA Queensland Regional Architecture Awards 2008
- Inaugural Art and Architecture Award for ‘Out of Mind’ by Fiona Hall, RAIA QueenInaugural Art and Architecture Award for ‘Out of Mind’ by Fiona Hall, RAIA Queensland Regional Architecture Awards 2008
A large building with a strong identity, this crucible for scientific research and discovery is an exemplary workplace where visual and physical connectivity embodies a collaborative culture.
The most prestigious floor has been taken away from the senior staff members, its traditional occupants, and made into a space for everyone to use.
Stefano Gulmanelli – QBI Brisbane, Domus
A fragmentary allusion to ancient theatre form can be read into the curved and cranking form comprising sequenced precast panels and window slots.
Peter Skinner – AR 105 on QBI
