UQ Soundshell | KIRK

UQ Soundshell | KIRK | Photographer: Christopher Frederick Jones

2025 National Architecture Awards Program

UQ Soundshell | KIRK

Traditional Land Owners

Turrbal and Jagera

Year
2025
Chapter

Queensland

Region

Brisbane

Category
Public Architecture
Builder
Built
Photographer
Christopher Frederick Jones
Media summary

The UQ Soundshell is a vaulted diagrid timber pavilion that acts as a pivotal element within the recently revitalised Lake and Ampitheatre at the University of Queensland St Lucia precinct.

The Soundshell responds to its sensitive and historically important site through simplicity of form and use of considered details and finishes. It enriches the on-campus experience and provides a new multi modal performance venue accommodating both small to large-scale events.

Versatile in its design, the timber diagrid structure offers a shaded, functional space outside of performance times. Climate and acoustic analysis were integrated to deliver optimal performance quality while maintaining weather protection and lakeside views. Performers can hear themselves and others clearly, a key challenge to overcome for outdoor performances.

The thin shell copper clad form blends into the surrounding landscape with a soft vaulted form and natural material palette. Thoughtfully crafted details result in a timeless and memorable structure.

Project Practice Team

Richard Kirk, Design Architect
Brendan Pointon, Project Architect
Andrew Magub, Architect
Catherine Liu, Graduate of Architecture
Fedor Medek, Architect
Archibald Kirk, Architectural Student

Project Consultant and Construction Team

Aurecon, Structural Engineer
Aurecon, Electrical Consultant
Marshall Day, Acoustic Consultant
Wild Studio, Landscape Consultant

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