A LEARNED LANDSCAPE

A new student precinct at University of Queensland is flourishing with lush landscaping designed to provide a sheltered retreat for visiting students and faculty.

A contemporary functional recreation space with sub-tropical landscaping has been created by Penfold Projects on the St Lucia campus of the University of Queensland. Designed for students and teachers to utilise while on campus, the precinct houses services such as student support, administration, enrolment and employability, while the new landscaping offers a comfortable gathering and working spot protected from the tropical weather.

Connecting to the Prentice Building, Staff House, Physics Annex and building 41, the new development encompasses a gathering plaza and canopy structure with a variety of hard and soft landscaping elements.

As the assigned landscape contractors to the site, Penfold Projects was responsible for installation of soft landscaping applications. The scope of works included the installation of a varied subtropical planting palette and edging to planted areas. Trellises were also installed by the team to create a sheltered seating area for students to gather and relax between lectures. Mature ex-ground trees were installed as part of the planting plan, offering shade to passersby and adding a level of maturity to the overall landscape design.

The lush nature of the greenlife works to soften the traditional lines of the surrounding heritage architecture, while also adding a counterpoint to the modern buildings. The fit-for-purpose space was designed to enhance the educational experience for all and beautify the campus grounds.

The resulting collection of verdant plantlife packed into raised and curved garden beds offset by sculptural overhead canopies and surrounded by private seating zones and wide pathways, all crafted from a natural-hued material palette, has formed an enticing communal space with a plethora of uses. As the recipient of the 2022 Landscape Queensland Construction Excellence Award (Commercial 1 category), this landscaped corridor is a feather in the cap of the Penfold Projects portfolio and worthy of its accolades.

PROJECT PARTICULARS

Client University of Queensland

Location St Lucia, Queensland

Builder Hansen Yuncken

Landscape Architect Hassell

Lighting & Services WSP

Landscape Contractor Penfold Projects