Sector: Education

Developing advanced robotics technology, testing new flame retardant materials, formulating food for space travel – these are just a few of the things students can now do at the University of Southern Queensland’s new F Block Engineering Labs at Springfield.  The University celebrated the $5.8 million expansion of the building with an official opening ceremony.

The multi-level building, which was officially opened by Senator Paul Scarr, enhances research opportunities and the University’s ability to provide a collaborative online and on campus composite delivery of practical learning to engineering and surveying students.

Designed by dwp Architects and built by Quadric, the building features specialised teaching and research spaces equipped with more than $1.5 million in new world class technology and equipment.

The labs include robotics and automation, future materials development, power and energy testing, civil and structural engineering, and a preparation room for surveying students.

Along with labs, the building provides a cross-disciplinary space where students can collaborate on solving real-world problems.

“We wanted a facility where students can share ideas and gain practical experience so that when they graduate, they have the skills that industry needs, both now and into the future,” Vice-Chancellor Professor Geraldine Mackenzie said.

“Having the labs, the technology and collaborative spaces boosts our capacity for innovation and ability to conduct cutting-edge research.”

The use of large glass walls and open areas throughout the building provide transparency, foster collaboration and spark curiosity – both from inside the building and out.

Professor Mackenzie said the design emphasised “engineering on display”.

“One of our biggest goals was to have a facility that showcased everything happening in the rooms and labs, from learning and designing, assembly of technology to testing, experimenting and optimisation,” she said.

Another feature of the building is its unique structural health monitoring system, which was designed by the University’s own engineering specialist Dr Andy Nguyen.

“Multiple sensors have been embedded throughout the building to allow students to monitor in real time its structural health performance as part of their studies,” Professor Mackenzie said.

“This is the first time what would normally be seen in large bridges or tall buildings has been implemented in a laboratory setting where all system components are directly in line of sight of the lab user.

“It means our students can instantly start their hands-on activities at any time on a 24/7 basis.

“When in idle mode, the system has a special ability to sense strong motions and wake up to record these crucial signatures of the building.

“Another unique feature of the system is the ability for students to apply the sensor roving technique to improve their understanding of structural behaviour.”

The University of Southern Queensland’s suite of engineering programs covers a broad range of specialisations, including civil, municipal/infrastructure, electrical, electronic, instrumentation and control, power, mechanical, mechatronic and construction management.

Breakout box opportunity: F Block Engineering Labs features

• Civil engineering laboratory with separate concrete mixing
• Curing and durability facility
• Heat treatment, fire testing and materials testing and metrology laboratories
• Mechanical engineering and fluid dynamics laboratory
• Electronics laboratory
• Communications laboratory
• Electrical power laboratory
• Robotics and automation laboratory with fabrication facilities
• Surveying preparation room
• Student collaboration space
• Seminar room

 

On 27 February 2020, the Queensland Government announced the Cooler Cleaner Schools Program (CCSP), which will provide a total funding package of more than $477 million over 4 years to air condition state schools and expand solar panel installations under the existing Advancing Clean Energy Schools (ACES) program.

Reaching completion in April 2022, this program has provided air conditioning to Queensland state school classrooms, libraries and staff rooms; delivering more comfortable teaching and learning environments for our students, teachers and school communities.

In total, under this program, approximately 650 state schools have benefited from air conditioning installations, making some 10,000 classrooms cooler and more comfortable.

Quadric was awarded the contract for the 22 schools in total accounting for over 1000 classrooms.  These works included the removal of existing mechanical units and installment and connection to new mechanical units, electrical upgrades, and associated builders works.  The works were conducted over a 24 month period and involved 4 Project Managers, 15 Site Managers, and 4 Contract Administrators.

Schools include:

Beerwah State High School

Kawana Waters State College

Pomona State School

Sunshine Beach State High School

Sunshine Beach State School

Alexandra Hills State High School

Birkdale State School

Macgregor State High School

Narangba Valley SHS

Albany Creek SHS

Bray Park SHS

Bray Park SS

Pine Rivers SS

Strathpine SS

Springfield Central SHS

Springfield Central SS

Woodcrest SC

Redbank Plains SHS

Woodlinks SS

Springfield Lakes SS

Bremer SHS

Augusta SS

Kallangur State Schools new ‘Mossman Hall’  was reconstructed by Quadric from the smaller footprint of their existing hall, doubling the area and capacity to use the multi-purposes.  A large interactive audio visual package was included along with a performance stage suitable for their specialist programs.  The works involved a CC3 certified steelwork structure allowing the facility to be used an emergency response site for the local community. Working with the existing school and site conditions, Quadric was able to deliver this major development for the school whilst continuing their school operations.    An administration refurbishment was also included which modernised their facilities.  A new transformer was installed to accommodate and future proof the campus for the next phase of  construction.   Quadric has already commenced the next phase of works which involves a resource centre extension, further increasing learning opportunities for students.

We thank Kallangur State School and Honeywill Consulting for your commitment to this project.

Department of Small Business and Training (DESBT) undertook revitalisation works at the Mt Gravatt TAFEQ Campus encompassing the Fashion Centre of Excellence and several other buildings, theatres, learning spaces, green spaces and public event locations.  All to meet the requirements of a single unified vision, to enhance the learning, engagement and experience of students.

Falling under the QLD State Governments ‘Advancing Our Training Infrastructure’ strategy, a portfolio of capital and maintenance works was endorsed to be delivered at the TAFE Mt Gravatt campus. The strategy is aimed at modernising TAFE facilities across Queensland making them competitive in a contestable market while providing high-quality facilities for students to carry out training. One part of the portfolio of works was to deliver a new, high-quality, Centre of Excellence and training facilities for Applied Fashion design and technology, as well as to help improve and reinforce the overall user experience across the campus.

The main design challenge involved the transformation of previously disused mechanics and machinery training facilities located on the second floor of G Block into renewed, high-quality, and contemporary teaching and training facilities for Applied Fashion design and technology students and faculty. The original machinery workshop consisted of several large industrial training areas including welding, hot works, and general storage areas which were constructed of concrete blockwork, steel and glass. The fundamental challenge was not only to bring back new life to the base building architecture, but to introduce new design elements that provided a contemporary and functional environment to support its new intended purpose. In addition, the original environment was both functionally and visually impaired and offered very little real physical connection or line of sight between spaces.

The design response aimed to provide a clean, welcoming environment that would maximise interaction and collaboration between peers, enhance user experience and provide the practical flexibility to cater for any changing future requirements over time. The response initially required the stripping out of all elements within the space to reveal the strong industrial form of the original architecture including raw concrete surfaces and partially lined vermiculite ceilings. This was then translated with the introduction of new seamless grey epoxy flooring and crisp white walls to promote to a sense of space, before being detailed with contrasting black trims to add a sharp modern touch. The final outcome was the creation of in an environment with an minimal industrial aesthetic, likened to that of a modern art gallery, acting as a ‘blank canvas’ and providing the ability for the space to be gradually distressed over time, not dissimilar to the textiles and garments produced by the students who intend to use the space itself.  The new environment comprises of a large main entry foyer and student gallery area, three new large open plan practical teaching studios, a dry laboratory area including 3D printing, laser cutting and examination facilities, and a wet laboratory area including a custom screen printing and development rooms and a large meeting room connected to the existing breakout hub.

Design features included open plan work environments to accommodate the wide selection of specialised equipment housed in each area, windows and glazing were introduced between each area to provide glimpses of activity and create intriguing vista’s in the space. Intelligent and innovative joinery solutions were also introduced throughout, constructed using plywood to add warmth a touch of visual tactility to each space, including the construction of a bespoke central storage room which is formed when two large pivoting storage walls adjoining two of the teaching studios are enclosed, but which are able to fully opened to create a single large capacity function space when desired.  A central avenue finally interconnects all of the main spaces, using a black undulating perforated metal feature ceiling housing a continuous linear light source, to act as both wayfinding as well as form the ‘digital ribbon’ that subtly reinforces the modern activities occurring within the space and ultimately ties the environment together.

 

 

The Springfield Anglican College is an independent Anglican Church School, committed to a holistic approach to educating the mind, body and spirit of students.  They seek to assist in achieving student’s potential and develop character which will position them to take up positive and active roles in society as adults.

The remodelling of the College’s first building facilitates continued growth and embodies developments in ways of teaching and learning over the last 20 years.

Connections between internal to external spaces are as unobstructed as possible, and the threshold zone blurs the line between internal and external, expanding to include all three rooms, emphasised by a continuous timber-lined ribbon. The high coloured windows celebrate the creative activities below, and aspire to make entering the classrooms a little bit magical!

Different modes of teaching and learning are supported within the rooms with a variety of spatial zones. To maintain flexibility these are suggested, rather than enforced, by changes in colour, finish, lighting, ceiling height, and wall alignment.

The intermediate dividing elements negotiate the adjustments required to accommodate three rooms in a building originally designed as two, directing flow of movement while stopping short of the perimeter to facilitate connection between rooms.

Architecture Koen on behalf of TSAC engaged Quadric to deliver the project based on a strong reputation in quality, and were very happy with the result.

 

The $7millon state-of-the-art redevelopment of the Gold Coast Institute of TAFE Southport Campus, was undertaken by Quadric over a 6 month period in the latter part of 2014.  The project provides infrastructure for the accommodation of a new student hub boosting an industrial design and promoting an educational environment.

The fitout delivers an abundance of building design elements bringing structure, joinery and finishes together. A benchmark for innovative design which enhances collaboration between students through peer-study zones and adaptable technology.  An innovation in construction is not a straightforward concept as it entails improvement in not only the processes, but also the products, materials and services the industry offers. The challenge is to identify potential opportunities to innovate.

Quadric were engaged to construct new facilities for Langports English Language College, consisting of 3 levels of interactive learning spaces including 24 classrooms, each with their own individually controlled air‐conditioning units and audio video facilities. Quadric also created student breakout, lounge and activity areas, as well as accommodating 43 staff, teacher management, administration and work spaces.

The construction of new bathroom facilities were completed in conjunction with upgrading existing base building amenities to comply with current PWD and ambulant disabled requirements. Other base building refurbishment included works to the central stairwell, and a fire integrity upgrade to ensure compliance with building regulations.

Greenlight Design completed the specifications and Quadric worked collaboratively to deliver the works. A critical 14 week timeframe meant works had to be carefully programmed and well managed throughout delivery to ensure all trades completed on time, allowing client and student occupation by their tenancy deadline.

The CQ University’s new Brisbane campus required a fitout and base building refurbishment to promote a learning environment. As the Principal Contractor for fitout and construction works, we created the interior in collaboration with the consultants. The flagship of CQ University’s international campuses sets the benchmark for innovative design and collaborative learning.  The heavy focus on IT and AV infrastructure presented project challenges relished by the project team.

Spatially this project involved the delivery of lecture theatres, classrooms, tutorial rooms, computer labs, library, bookshop, academic and staff support spaces, administration, student break-out and recreation areas, prayer rooms and additional toilet amenities. From the outset, the architectural agenda was the creation of ‘place’. Upon arrival to any of the 8 custom fit floors, you may be forgiven for thinking you had beamed upon the Starship Enterprise. Light bands strike through internal spaces from ceiling recesses, as bulkheads and spatial openings ‘cut-out’ into foyers, classrooms & lecture theatres. Spacious, open and flexible floor planning utilizes widespread natural light on almost every level. The result is a clever take on technological advancement & modernity, inspired by the verticality of the city site.

Upon arrival on any of the 8 custom fit floors, you may be forgiven for thinking you had beamed upon the Starship Enterprise. Light bands strike through internal spaces from ceiling recesses, as bulkheads and spatial openings ‘cut-out’ into foyers, classrooms & lecture theatres. Bold red punctuates much of the interiors with energy to reflect vibrancy and activity. Spacious, open and flexible floor planning utilizes widespread natural light on almost every level. The result is a clever take on technological advancement & modernity, inspired by the verticality of the city site.

This project was fast tracked and was completed on time and on budget over a very disruptive period for Brisbane during the 2011 floods. Quadric would like to take this opportunity to thank the team of over 100 project staff who showed their commitment to our projects by ensuring CQU came to a timely completion, even though in many cases their own houses were in disrepair.

Following the demolition of this 1500m2 space, Quadric completed an extensive fitout of the College of English Language that included a hair & beauty salon, toilets, two kitchens and various multi-purpose teaching classrooms. The striking graphics added a nice finishing touch. Vibrant colours helped to create a warm and uniquely modern theme. State of the art audio visual components we also installed. The result is a true testament to the Quadric Project Team.

Quadric worked collaboratively with the design team to convert the old space into a bright and exciting place to learn. The custom made reception area crystallises our ability to work directly off a plan and integrate new techniques. Long irregular angled walls, along with crisp and light joinery and furniture finish a unique room – the perfect blank canvas for students. Extensive service requirements are hidden within the practical teaching areas. The finished project boasts an eight-station, open plan hair treatment and beauty room.

Schools: Balmoral SHS, Birkdale South SS, Bracken Ridge SS, Bray Parks SS, Brisbane SHS, Burnside SHS, Craigslea SS, Fig Tree Pocket SS, Gatton SS, Gumdale SS, Hampden SS, Ironside SS, Kawana Waters SC, Mackay Central SS, Mcdowall SS, Nashville SS, Narbethong SS, Norman Park SS, Norris Road SS, Pindi Pindi SS, Seaforth SS, Strathpine SS, Victoria Point SHS, Wynnum SS

Designs: Lightbox Architecture, Donovan Hill, Te Group Consultants, Blackley Design, Monster Ideas, Chris Pritchett Architects, Turner & Townsend, Blackburne Jackson Design

To date Quadric has been appointed the NSP projects of 24 schools to a value in excess of $4 million. With our wide range of in-house trade skills we were able to deliver these projects on time and with minimal fuss. These projects ranged from internal classroom refurbishments to extensions and even new buildings. Working at schools meant minimal distraction and noise was favoured and workers required blue cards. The designs combine elements that promote an educational environment and areas children feel safe and can have fun in.

“Quadric was the Prinicipal Contractor on two of our thirteen National School Pride projects, and their performance on both jobs was exemplary. We found Quadric to be the most efficient and effective contractor across all the projects.”

The Griffith University M07 Building was originally broken into two sections: a tired and aged office space and an external storage area. This project enclosed the storage area to extend the internal space and create a new Laptop Lounge and modern office space for students and staff. It incorporates functionality for learning with sleek aesthetics to encourage use from a range of demographics. Incorporating a new concrete staircase and suspended steel walkway, this project clearly demonstrates what can be achieved by having the project delivered by a fitout contractor who has the skills and expertise to conduct true building works.

The Veresdale Scrub State School required a new classroom block and amenities block to cater to their growing number of students. The amenities block was built on a restricted site bound on all sides by existing structures. The new building significantly upgraded the facilities at the school and new septic tanks and rainwater tanks were installed underground to service new fittings. The new classroom block was constructed to be similar in appearance to the existing buildings but with modern styled facilities and sun-smart shaded areas. Safety was paramount as children as young as four years old are often on the premises. Separate secured access for vehicles and personnel was maintained and all workers on site also had to be holders of a blue card.