Preparation
Some $50 million worth of early works are being undertaken by QUT on the Gardens Point as part of our ambitious campus redevelopment plans.
Multi-million dollar laboratories upgrade
As part of early works, the university is investing $23 million in upgrading existing laboratories and workshops within the disciplines of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). Engineering laboratories and workshops in O block were completed mid 2010 and are now fully operational.
The flexible multipurpose labs accommodate individual and group learning, and include space for research in highly serviced open spaces. New storage spaces have been provided to store and access mobile equipment used in the flexible laboratories.
These changes have consolidated existing labs in O block and those from L Block and P Block into a new and innovative space for practical learning and research. An off-site facility at Banyo on Brisbane's north side has been developed to accommodate research activities in a larger scale pilot plant mode.
A number of science laboratories are currently being refurbished and are due for completion by mid 2011.
Higher Degree Research student space
Level 1 of the heritage-listed H Block has been designed to provide a centralised common work, collaboration and presentation area for higher degree research (HDR) students. The significant fabric of the building (including brickwork, early doors and windows, and concrete floor) is to be maintained in accordance with QUT’s Heritage Management Protocol.
Two main areas comprising a group studio (interactive space) and an open office study area (individual learning space) were completed mid May 2011.
New student zone in S Block
A $20 million refurbishment of S Block was completed mid 2010 with the teaching spaces ready for the beginning of Semester 1 2010.
The development incorporated a new technology-enhanced student zone on Level 5 and the renovation and upgrade of levels 3 and 4 to improve teaching space. Social learning space was incorporated on level 4 with the adjacent Z Block level 4 also set up the same way.
The new student space for collaborative teaching and learning, which has been funded under the Commonwealth Government's Better Universities Renewal Fund, provides extensive access for computers and laptops.
A Block refurbishment
An extensive $7 million fit-out of the gracious old A Block at the George Street entrance of Gardens Point was completed during 2009.
Sunlit offices and impressive meeting rooms that take advantage of sweeping ceilings and views to the adjacent City Gardens and Old Parliament House have been reconfigured and enhanced with latest technology as part of the early works centre program.