LatStudios was engaged by the University of Queensland to transform an area in the campus previously occupied by maintenance & gardeners’ facilities into a new recreation space for the adjacent student residences located off Hood Street.

The opportunities for the space included gathering space, outdoor study rooms, barbeque and outdoor eating facilities, active recreation and a relaxation lawn. The team successfully transformed the space in under a year to align with the University calendar. LatStudios’ design for the space takes into consideration:

• adjacent buildings
• broader campus connections
• how the space contributes positively to this key corner
• how the space addresses the significant level change at Services Road
• retention of existing trees
• the broader campus planting palette.

Benefits
The new space features:

• outdoor recreation including half basketball/netball court and ping pong table
• a large 'veranda' shelter referencing an adjacent saw toothed roof, with outdoor study space, seating, tables and BBQ's
• the 'courtyard' seating under the shade of existing trees
• key new connections from neighbouring buildings
• new public amenities
• a lush lawn open area
• planting of native trees and vegetation with interpretive signage celebrating traditional uses.

Selected photography by Ross Pottinger.