It is a space QUT students and staff flock to, and it is now recognised as the top education building in Queensland, with the latest state awards announced last night.
Run by the Australian Institute of Architects, the Queensland Architecture Awards, saw the Peter Coaldrake Education Precinct receive triple honours.
Awards included the Jennifer Taylor award for education architecture, and the state awards for both interior and sustainable architecture.
Opened last year, the precinct was praised for its sustainability and connectivity by linking to the library at Kelvin Grove campus and richly integrating landscape and architecture.
“In a highly technological building, the biophilic design of this space creates a wonderful relief for students and academics,” the judges wrote in the citation.
Designed by Brisbane-based Wilson Architects and Danish architects Henning Larsen the building was purpose designed for the new generations of students and staff who have ever-changing attitudes and expectations about learning and technological development.
Wilson Architects Director John Thong said by creating a living, social, student-focussed environment it invites them to explore and identify the Education Precinct as a memorable ‘place’ on the campus and one that leaves them with fond memories of their studies at QUT.
“There is surprise and delight with the internal garden bathed in natural daylight and occupying the social learning spaces nestled in and around living flowering plants,” Mr Thong said.
“The luminous form of the five-metre diameter sphere hovers just above the student lounge and atrium and creates a readily identifiable landmark within the building and on the campus.”
QUT Vice Chancellor and President Professor Margaret Sheil said the building represented a significant investment by the university in enhancing the student learning experience and continuing to provide quality teaching and education.
“These facilities reflect QUT’s commitment to applying technology and immersive digital environments in teaching, research and engagement.”
QUT Education Executive Dean Professor Carol Nicoll said the building overachieved on its brief by maximising high quality informal student learning spaces.
“Students flocked to the building from the day it was opened,” Professor Nicoll said.
“The small meeting rooms with AV equipment, the discussion spaces, the quiet working areas and formal teaching spaces are designed to maximise critical inquiry and small group engagement while also having the flexibility to hold larger groups as well.
“The building is a great success and celebration of teacher education.”
The honours were bestowed during a livestreamed event hosted on YouTube.
The precinct had also previously been named Brisbane’s Building of the year.
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