Queensland University of Technology has announced a shortlist of architectural contenders to design a $200 million science and technology precinct and community hub on its Garden Point campus in Brisbane's CBD.
QUT Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Coaldrake said the university's evaluation panel had unanimously selected four consultancies or consortia from a total of 20 submissions for the project.
They are: Woods Bagot, Urbis and S2F; Donovan Hill and Wilson Architects; Architectus; and John Wardle Architects/ M3 Architecture.
"All four organisations have the proven capability in delivering a project of this scale and the panel felt that each could provide exciting and innovative concept plans," Professor Coaldrake said.
QUT advertised for tenders by architects and master planners to design the new multi-million dollar precinct last month.
Professor Coaldrake said the precinct would involve redevelopment of the Gardens Point campus over the next five years, incorporating the demolition of some existing buildings and design and construction of a number of new buildings.
"It is envisioned that a contemporary architectural space will not only become a focus for the university but a showpiece for the city of Brisbane, in its key position as the gateway to vehicular traffic on the Captain Cook Bridge and pedestrian traffic on the Goodwill Bridge," he said.
"QUT is also seeking a plan that will address the relationship of Old Government House with the Botanical Gardens through the precinct."
The precinct is expected to comprise significant planning and design of educational facilities and spaces for learning resources, the community, recreation facilities and retail outlets.
It will also have an underground car park, swimming pool and gym and the redevelopment will seek to achieve a 5 to 6 green-star rating.
As part of this initial development stage, the winning contenders will now be invited to submit concept plans and a detailed brief over a 12-week period.
"Based on quality of ideas and value for money, one organisation from these firms will be selected to provide design consultancy services for this major development," Professor Coaldrake said.
Media contact: QUT Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Coaldrake on 3138 2365 or Janne Rayner, QUT media manager on 3138 2361.
