The University of Queensland’s Forgan Smith building was recently renovated, transforming the existing 1948 building into a modern, collaborative, interactive and innovative learning space.
The $35M project’s focus was on amalgamating the law faculties activities and replanning the space into three distinct sections of research and operation suites; a central learning zone; and the law library.
Bligh Tanner were responsible for all upfront investigations of the existing building including inspecting the existing structure to determine if the heritage building could accommodate the proposed renovations and modified floor loadings.
The building’s upper level roof was demolished to allow an increase in the roof height of 500mm, creating a more functional floor space. The process of replacing the building’s roof consisted of removal of the existing roof structure and erection of the new steel framing with particular care taken to protect the heritage features. The new structure features a series of ceiling vaults, reflecting the University’s Great Court.
Internally, demolition works were conducted to allow for a new void area creating a full height atrium in the main entrance.
The building was officially opened by The Hon Justice Susan Kiefel AC, Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia, in early 2017.
Awards:
AIA National Awards – Educational Architecture Award
AIA National Awards – Interior Architecture Award
AIA Qld Chapter – Interior Architecture Award
AIA Qld Chapter – Educational Architecture Award
Australian Interior Design Awards Best of State Queensland – Commercial winner
AIA Qld Chapter Brisbane Regional Commendation – Interior Architecture
AIA Qld Chapter Brisbane Regional Commendation – Educational Architecture
CLIENT | The University of Queensland |
ARCHITECT | BVN |
BUILDER | Buildcorp |
PHOTOGRAPHER | Christopher Frederick Jones |
"This was a really important project for Lat27 and Bligh Tanner’s collaborative approach to working with us to deliver an outstanding new educational spine for UQ Gatton’s campus was invaluable. The civil and structural team at Bligh Tanner helped us create a new piece of public realm where a sensitive, minimal and seamless outcome was fundamental to the success of the project. The unseen elements of their designs are testament to how smart engineers can provide expertise that complements the presentation and functionality of these projects."
"You have normal engineers, and then you have Bligh Tanner. They enjoy being challenged. They are the “architect’s engineer”."
"The benefit of working with Bligh Tanner is the attention you receive from their senior people and their continuity through the project. Their attitude, responsiveness and rigour of documentation, distinguishes them."
"Bligh Tanner's structural design processes ensured project cost and operational requirements were achieved while maintaining the Architect's aesthetic parameters for the buildings structural elements. The department have found Bligh Tanner's project engineers to be professional and proactive at all stages of the procurement of the Gold Coast Sport and Leisure Centre and the Gold Coast Suns Administration and Training Facility."
"I have been thoroughly impressed by Bligh Tanner's commitment to collaborating with multiple stakeholders during the delivery of the Advancing Queensland Schools programme of works. Bligh Tanner’s expertise in education work has proven to add value toward successfully addressing DET Standards and quickly resolving technical issues in a coordinated manner. Bligh Tanner’s easy to read 2D and 3D documentation allowed for high levels of collaboration among stakeholder’s, quick identification of value-for-money solutions and achievement of the project objectives on time."
"Since 2013 we have been working with Bligh Tanner on a variety of projects. They are our now our first point of call for all Structural matters. The Bligh Tanner team have always demonstrated an understanding of the challenges associated with retail projects. They have been flexible, and have proved a willingness to work with the whole project team to find the best outcome for the project."
"Bligh Tanner’s research, testing guidance, analysis, and can-do attitude, has enabled Ozone Panel to develop appropriate technical information and guidance to confidently share with our clients, be it builders, building surveyors or structural engineers. The team at Bligh Tanner are passionate about what they do, great to work with and I have no hesitation in recommending Bligh Tanner for your next project. "
"Our site project staff and myself have worked with Paul and his team, and have found they are flexible and adaptable in their approach to engineering issues and solutions. We find them to be easy to work with, very approachable and proactive in assisting with any site issues encountered."