QUT D & R Block
Kelvin Grove Queensland
The project involved the refurbishment of four different areas on four floors of the existing library at Kelvin Grove. John Andrews / John Simpson originally designed Block R in 1977. It is an off form concrete structure with clear finished Tasmanian Oak VJ lining to all internal partitions. Our modifications in this building faithfully respected this existing detailing. This is largely achieved by recycling virtually all of the existing timber lining. The refurbished areas included a main loans area, staff areas and a seminar training room.
The work in Block D involved the stripping out of one wing of an existing 4-storey building that was constructed in 1967. The new fit out had to accommodate an area for 10 reference librarians and support staff. A separate space was needed for a post-graduate researchers centre. The area will be used by as many as 12 students simultaneously, who regularly need to consult with the reference librarians. Issues including conflicting access and security requirements, views and privacy, called for numerous and intense user group meetings.
The client’s response to the final design is best summarised in comments for a letter sent to the designers at the conclusion of the project-
"We are truly delighted with the outcome. The solutions are quite creative and have resulted in work spaces which are both functional and attractive" "The outcome has far exceeded our expectations in every way."