Description

BVN won this project through a design competition for a new visitors centre at the Port of Brisbane

The centre, sited beside a lake on Fisherman Island, is oriented due north-south and employs a roof which opens to receive southern light into the exhibition spaces.

The centre is designed around a strong environmental agenda with timber construction, passive solar control, solar water heating and a mixture of natural and conditioned air. Supported on timber piles, the building appears to float above the landscape.

Internally, a repetitive structural module with plywood sheeted trusses supported on blade columns, breaks down the space into a series of smaller units for exhibition displays. A comprehensive auditorium of 100 seats and an external amphitheatre provide spaces for education and conferences.

A cafe and dining room with open decks overlooking the lake provide views and cooling breezes for al fresco dining.