UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL QUEENSLAND
Client: University of Central Queensland
Consultancy Services:
· Preparation of brief
· Conceptual design
· Design development
· Masterplanning
· Documentation
· Contract administration
· Site supervision
Project Description:
The University of Central Queensland (Gladstone Campus) is located on Auckland Creek, adjacent to the Gladstone Marina and the City Centre. The commission required a Masterplan to be prepared for the entire campus surrounds, in consideration of future building expansion, with the first stages to be implemented around the main administration and lecture building. Alderson/Jacobi were also appointed to prepare detailed designs for the central courtyard to the administration centre and construction works for both areas were undertaken early in 1994.
Due to the site consisting predominantly of reclaimed mudflats, issues such as salting and support of structures on unstable soils had to be addressed as part of the design brief. Rising salt levels called for a planting schedule, which was specifically tolerant to the site conditions and the requirements of shade and protection within the courtyard space. Formal pools and a strong geometric paving grid were used to maximise the useability of the narrow courtyard space by creating a series of separate, yet linked precincts for group discussion and quiet contemplation. Fountains, lighting and water movement in the pools was also an integral part of the overall design. External areas on the campus grounds were mass planted with salt tolerant species in monoculture to maintain visibility for pedestrians and vehicles, whilst mounding was used to provide some climatic protection for students.