On Australia’s sunny eastern coast, a new model of social, sustainable learning has taken shape. The Peter Coaldrake Education Precinct draws from surrounding campus activity to breathe new life into traditional academic models. Hansen Yuncken delivered the six storey, 11,000m2 building, which layers classroom, research, and office facilities atop an open ground level atrium.

Positioned between the university library and the main thoroughfare in QUT’s Kelvin Grove Campus, the project included a complex façade system capable of withstanding the harsh Queensland elements. Delivered in partnership with Henning Larsen and Wilson Architects, the upper envelope features perforated metal sun shades while, in contrast, the lower level’s translucent solar blinds, encased in a double glazed façade system deliver abundant natural light and an unhindered view.

Visible through the glass façade is the luminous form of a LED sphere five meters in diameter, suspended over the atrium floor

Housing the QUT’s Oodgeroo Unit, planted green social spaces, including a Yarning Circle and fire pit for smoking ceremonies invite visitors to use the building as various meeting points. The striking LED installation, with wall-mounted displays, gives the building a colorful local identity and embody the University’s commitment to creativity, sustainability and technology.