The two firms were selected as part of an architectural design competition for TRI, completing the visually prominent edifice at the Princess Alexandra Hospital at Dutton Park at the end of 2012. The grand reflective exterior conceals a greenery-filled outdoor room, which delivers respite from the intensity of research. Lighting and furniture are a feature throughout the interior, crafting a work environment that leans towards postmodern stylings. Recycled bricks from the demolished Vision Australia building make up the red palette, along with custom bricks, terracotta tiling and copper sheeting.

The progressive development of new research centres locally has led to growing expectations for high-quality, architecturally designed facilities, with Wilson Architects and BVN Donovan Hill responding to this need. TRI was also awarded the F.D.G. Stanley Award for Public Architecture and the G.H.M. Addison Award for Interior Architecture at the 2013 Queensland Architecture Awards earlier this year.

Image credit: Christopher Frederick Jones.