Architecture - Masters

An Institutional Anchor and Field Station for Araucaria Futures

Used in conjunction with the Field Station within Imbil State Forest, to monitor the transition from plantation to rainforest, this Institutional Anchor will facilitate research, promote education and share knowledge through its diverse and adaptable spaces. Located in the heart of Kenilworth, this centre will be the hub for researchers cultivating knowledge found in the field, with a focus on hosting researchers from the CSIRO, QUT, and the Gubbi Gubbi people.

Emily Hinds

the qut & csiro institutional anchor for araucaria futures

life beyond the plantation

By taking the profile of the texture of the Araucaria Cunninghamii, this building magnifies the beauty of the perceived ordinary and introduces, creates intrigue and ultimately appreciation for this species of tree located within Imbil State Forest.

Located within 20 minutes from the Field Station, this Anchor shares a strong connection to the work and research being conducted within the field. The chosen site sits amongst popular tourist destinations, making it the central hub of the town of Kenilworth.

Ground Level Floor Plan

Level 1 Floor Plan

Level 2 Floor Plan

The concrete base as the foundation of the building holds the three timber pods above, creating a hybrid of low and high metabolism structures. The notion that the concrete form would be what is left in the landscape over time serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our natural ecosystem, whilst the interior of the building celebrates timber as a natural source of building material.

The Western Facade has been pushed back to relate to the neighboring buildings and offers more private access and seclusion for various community groups wishing to meet and use the building’s facilities.

the qut & CSiro field station

for araucaria futures

Adapted from the organic form of Araucaria Cunninghamii foliage, this field station responds to the notion of growth and change in the Imbil State forest. Through modular form and its ability to change, this building reflects how, as the site continues to change, so too can the building be modified and added to through low intrusive design.

This field station responds to the need to provide facilities and short-term accommodation for users to conduct their research in and amongst the regeneration area. The building’s purpose mitigates negative impacts and provides positive impacts for the biophysical, socio-economical, spiritual, and experiential ecosystems through a strong focus on low intrusive design and construction.

Emily Hinds

Emily is a Student of Architecture currently completing her Masters degree. She is passionate about meaningful architecture and would like to one day pursue a career in the Humanitarian Architecture sector. She believes in creating place-based design solutions to impact the individual and enable them to feel valued, appreciated, and as if they belong. Emily seeks to show people their value through considerate design.