Woven Stories - Connecting Ancestors through Architecture.

Building on a level beyond the name. Interpretive Facade, Cairns State High School.

Bou-Wa

'‘A significant ancestor of the Yidinji people and this building honours his place.”

With the world as our community we need to recognise the culture within the places we work and reflect their stories within our new and modern built environment. We believe this cultural awareness to be a strength, bringing different approaches to problem solving, helping us innovate, have better ideas, and understand the communities we work with. By working together with our clients and communities we form collaborations that add meaning and value to the human experience.

The story behind the Interpretive Façade

Cairns State High School - Centennial Hall

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Cairns State High Centennial Hall

Bou-Wa, the Centennial Hall is now a favourite venue for Australian Basketball's BOOMERS national squad, as home for the training camp in August 2023 . 

Meeting the needs of elite athletes, and readily available to host Olympic level teams in the near future.

Cairns School of Arts | A Beacon of Preservation and Innovation in the Heart of the CBD

The heritage adaptation of Cairns oldest public building, the School of Arts, has seen it restored to reflect its original appearance. A new street-front extension now houses the Cairns Museum. 

The building occupies a focal corner of what is known as City Place, the historical heart of the Cairns CBD. The design approach to this project began with the idea of this central streetscape as a living museum.

The School of Arts, constructed in 1907, had undergone a series of extensions throughout its history in response to the city’s changing needs. In 1932 the existing two storey building was continued further along Lake Street. 

In 1939 an ‘Egyptian’ art deco style wing was added to provide a larger, purposed design public library and more retail space below. This art deco façade was later concealed behind a veranda during a major renovation in 1984. 

The opportunity existed to uncover this story about the growth and development of Cairns by restoring the integrity of each successive extension. The new Cairns Museum wing was conceived as the latest chapter in the story.

Works included the refitting the ground floor shop fronts to their original use as retail and dining spaces. Silky Oak tongue and groove ceilings, decorative cornices, ceiling battening and shopfront glazing were reinstated or restored where possible. 

The previously hidden ‘Egyptian’ art deco columns were restored and the 1939 awning and School of Arts signage were reconstructed. Documentation of the restoration works was extensively researched, drawing from the analysis of paint scrapings, old photographs of the building and knowledge of historical paints and colour palettes. 

A full modernisation of the mechanical, electrical and air-conditioning system was undertaken to allow the Cairns Historical Society to safely utilise the existing building as an archive for their collection of significant artefacts and provide a museum space of contemporary standards.

The new Cairns Museum on Shield Street repeats the motif of prominent building name signage found on each of the previous extensions. ‘School of Arts’ is cut into the timber screen façade as an iconographic element. 

Exposed concrete is used throughout in reference to the original 1907 School of Arts, which is one of Cairns’ first insitu concrete structures. The museum stair functions as the central circulation spine and a device for separating the new and old. Concrete floor slabs bridge across the stair void connecting the museum to display spaces in the 1907 building. 

A three-storey strip of glazing is used to visually separate the new museum façade from the existing enclosed veranda. The western 1907 façade is entirely contained within the new museum volume. The façade is kept readable as a building exterior by continuing the sea-green exterior paint finish and retaining window hoods to the original sash windows. 

In a gesture of deference to the heritage architecture, the contemporary extension utilises a neutral colour palette of whites and greys. The Cairns Historical Society manager’s office, kitchenette and meeting room are placed within the existing School of Arts as Silky Oak clad insertions. These spaces are angled to contrast with the orthogonal structure of the heritage building.

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This article was recently featured on Architecture and Design

Historic Rockhampton Railyards Set for Revitalization: TMR Unveils Draft Master Plan for Heritage Precinct

In a bid to breathe new life into the rich rail history of the Rockhampton Railyards, the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has unveiled an ambitious Draft Master Plan for the site's Heritage Precinct. The 19-hectare site, boasting an Industrial and Heritage Precinct, is a pivotal piece of Queensland's rail history, and the proposed revitalization aims to seamlessly blend historical preservation with community and commercial use.

TPG Architects' Roger Mainwood coupled with Collin Strydom from design+architecture collaborated visionary approach to design and architecture, provided the creative foundation for the masterplan. Their combined efforts ensured a harmonious blend of modern functionality and historical preservation, seamlessly integrating the site's rich heritage into the proposed revitalization.

AHS Australian Heritage Specialists’ Ben Gall and Julia Pritchard brought invaluable insight and expertise in heritage conservation, ensuring that the masterplan honoured the site's historical significance while meeting contemporary needs.

This partnership laid the groundwork for the transformation of the Rockhampton Railyards into a vibrant hub of historic community and culture.

Preserving History with Community Engagement

The Heritage Precinct, listed on the Queensland Heritage Register, is set to undergo a transformation guided by a Conservation Management Plan. At the heart of this plan is the restoration of the iconic Rockhampton Roundhouse, a structure steeped in a century of rail history. TMR encourages the community to actively participate in shaping the precinct's future by providing feedback on the Draft Master Plan.

Community members can contribute to the discussion by sharing stories or memories of the Roundhouse and the Railyards. The consultation, which includes a survey and local information sessions, is open until 5 pm on Friday, February 23, 2024. This input will play a vital role in shaping the Final Master Plan.

A Glimpse into the Future: Draft Master Plan Highlights

The Draft Master Plan envisions a family-oriented, flexible use of the Heritage Precinct, with a phased activation approach.

Key features of the proposed plan include:

1. Open Spaces and Flexibility: The main entry off Bolsover Street will lead to large open spaces (Bay 1 and 2) for market stalls, food trucks, and community events.

2. Multi-Use Event Space: Bay 3 is designated as a large flexible multi-use event space, catering to workshops, community gatherings, and classes.

3. Rail History Celebration: Bays 4 and the inner circle will host a museum space celebrating the site's history with rail exhibits and artefacts. A Heritage Boardwalk in the shape of the Fitzroy River will connect to a historic locomotive, offering an educational journey through the rich rail history.

4. Commercial Spaces: Existing office spaces (Bay 5 and 6) will be available for light commercial tenants, while Bay 7 will house a large hospitality space for restaurants or cafes.

5. Family-Friendly Spaces: Dedicated play areas for children within the inner circle, including the 'Big Lawn,' train-themed play equipment, grass mounds, and shaded areas.

6. Restoration and Amenities: The Boiler Room and Timekeepers Office will be restored, and new amenities, including toilets, will be constructed to enhance visitor experience.

The Draft Master Plan presents a holistic vision, emphasizing the integration of historical preservation, community engagement, and commercial viability. While the plan is conceptual, further stages involve detailed design, heritage approvals, and funding applications.

As Rockhampton anticipates the renaissance of its historic Railyards, the community's involvement stands as a testament to the collaborative effort to preserve and celebrate the region's vibrant rail heritage.

Draft Master Plan survey is now open.

Have your say on the Draft Master Plan, proposed community spaces within the Roundhouse and the staged activation of the precinct.

TPG Architects Awarded Regional Project of the year prize.

Newman Catholic College Showcases sets the benchmark in the sustainable design of Tropical Architecture.

TPG Architects, renowned local Cairns practice, proudly took home the coveted Best Regional Project award at the recent Far North Queensland Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) Awards and Education Commendation in the State awards in June. Now moving through to the National Awards at the end October. The recognition celebrates the exceptional design and delivery of Newman Catholic College, the first Catholic College to be built on a university campus in Australia.

The awards jury said:

“Architectural masterpiece that sets a benchmark for tropical architecture in the education sector.”

The award citation noted that the building is ”Positioned harmoniously between a major regional highway, lush bushland, and the sprawling university playing fields, Newman Catholic College beautifully responds to its diverse surroundings while harnessing natural ventilation throughout all seasons. The project showcases TPG Architects' ingenuity in integrating sustainable design principles into educational spaces.”

From the vantage point of the highway, the school's commanding presence exudes strength and grandeur. The carefully crafted fenestrations not only enhance the building's aesthetic appeal but also serve to mitigate prevailing weather conditions, conceal services, and provide an acoustic buffer, ensuring an ideal learning environment.

Creating a seamless connection between the school and the surrounding university grounds, the ground level of Newman Catholic College opens up to embrace the borrowed space. Above, the building establishes its distinctive identity, offering tantalizing glimpses of the dynamic activities taking place inside, perfectly balancing both intimacy and grandiosity.

Click image above for more photos and information about the project.

The jury went on to say:

“As one ventures into the building, a breathtaking interplay unfolds between the open-air ‘theatre’ of circulation spaces and the tranquil bushland backdrop. The juxtaposition of scale creates a captivating contrast, captivating the public persona with every step. Thoughtfully placed stairs and landings become focal points, encouraging social interaction, and providing students with unique opportunities to gather, mingle, and form lasting connections. The amphitheatre, doubling as informal lunchtime seating, further enriches the social fabric of the school community.

Every element within Newman Catholic College exhibits a remarkable dual functionality, epitomizing the meticulous attention to detail inherent in TPG Architects’ design philosophy. The school stands as a testament to their commitment to creating sustainable, inspiring educational spaces that transcend mere functionality.”

— (AIA) Far North Queensland Awards Jury

TPG delivers the new “Swim with the Salties” experience in Port Douglas

We are so happy about our recent contribution to expanding Port Douglas’ one-of-a-kind experiences. With tourism slowly coming back to life throughout the country, what better time to add new offerings to the traveller’s agenda.

The CrocArena in Port Douglas’ WIldlife Habitat as designed by TPG Archtitects.

After many requests from visiting and would-be-visiting tourists, the CaPTA group, who is responsible for famous attractions such as the Rainforestation Nature Park, Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Cairns Zoom & Wildlife Dome and more, not only added a CrocArena to their Wildlife Habitat in Port Douglas, but also now allow guests the option to “Swim with the Salties”.

Of course, the guests will stay safe throughout the experience, as a 30mm thick perspex wall separates the humans gazing at the modern dinosaurs with their killer instincts. TPG Architects was responsible for the full design, including a grandstand amphitheatre with seating for 300 people. The underwater viewing areas allow visitors to watch feeding of the predators up close and also swim with them from the perspective of potentially being prey, thus getting an idea of just how bone-crushing those giant jaws could be without any risk to themselves or the crocs!

CrocArena in Port Douglas. Photograph sourced from Wildlife Habitat

Such an innovative design is bolstering Port Douglas as a tourism destination in a unique and special way by giving visitors a truly remarkable experience. The CrocArena is now considered to be the crown jewel of attractions in Port Douglas. Hence our excitement about his project!

The newly designed Wildlife Habitat and CrocArena in Port Douglas by TPG Archtitects.

Ten Reasons to Work With an Architect

Architects design spaces their clients did not know were possible.

Architects are trained to think about design and are supreme problem solvers.

Architects envisage and design what is not obvious, to create a project that is more than simply the sum of its parts.

Architects are the most highly skilled, trained and qualified designers you can work with to realise the vision of your project.

1. Architects design buildings that are great to live in

Choosing the right aspect, making the most of views, creating energy efficiency and ensuring the best use of available space are all things an architect considers when designing a house. In Queensland important design aspects include minimising western exposure, making good use of outdoor spaces and ensuring excellent ventilation. The result is a building that is great to live in – summer and winter, day and night – all the time.

2. Architects help turn your vision into reality

The design, layout and selection of materials should all contribute to the experience of living in your home. Your ideas are important and your architects will listen carefully to you. The end result should be a home that suits the way you want to live.

3. Different architects will have different ideas and solutions

Architects are all different. Make a shortlist of the architects you want to meet. Have a look at their work online or ask to see some of their completed projects. Good design is a collaboration between the client and the architect, so partner with the architect you think will work best with you. Like you, your architect is passionate about realising your project.

4. Architects can have enormous impact on even the smallest project

Engage an architect who is enthusiastic about working on your project and within your budget. A tight space or tight budget makes an architect’s clever design thinking even more vital.

5. Architects will design to your budget

Buildings need not come in over budget and often the challenge is aligning your budget with your expectations. This involves open, honest and realistic conversation at the outset and throughout the project.

6. Architects help avoid unnecessary or surprise costs

Thoroughly documented plans ensure transparency for both client and builder. Your architect’s project management skills take the worry and fear out of working with builders, limiting disputes and variations. Your architect is on the job so you don’t have to be.

7. Architects are with you every step of the way … the drawings are just part of the process

A great process involves discussion, thinking, options and concept design, all part of the consultation between architect and client. Sometimes great opportunities or ideas come along during construction. Having your architect working with you throughout construction will add enormous value and assist with any design changes that may arise. Your architect will help you decide is a change is worthy of the costs that may be associated and guide you to the best solution for your needs.

8. Training and experience make a difference

A minimum five years university training, two years practical experience, a registration exam and compulsory continued professional development means architects have the superior education, training and experience to ensure you are working with the most highly qualified designers in the building industry.

9. Architects provide advice on finishes, fittings and interior design

Successful architecture includes interior and exterior layouts and the selection of finishes which reflect you and the way you want to live. Working with an architect gives you the best chance of realising your dream.

10. Architects are a small cost in the overall budget

Good architecture endures over time and maintains its value, paying dividends in all kinds of ways. Good design gets the practicalities right, adding immeasurable richness and delight to all aspects in your new home.

If you would like to see these tips all at once and want a downloadable copy to have on hand, we’ve created one just for that purpose.

Click here to get your PDF download.

*NOTE: The above information was originally written and published by the Australian Institute of Architects

First Roof Wetting held in decades, in celebration of Newman College

Image: Newman College on JCU campus, work in progress.

Recently the TPG Architects team joined with the new principal of Newman College and the Diocese of Cairns representatives, together with Bryant Building Contractors, along with consultants, tradesmen, future staff and parents of the school, to celebrate the project milestone of the roof completion for Newman Catholic College.

This building is one of our latest projects under construction on the JCU campus in Smithfield, Cairns.

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So what is a ‘roof wetting’? Let’s look at the meaning and history of a roof wetting.

Otherwise known as “topping out”,  roof wetting is a celebration by the Client as a way to thank all the workers, tradesmen, consultants, and more, who have participated in delivering the project to the point where it has reached its form, height or roof enclosure.

It is also used to indicate the project reaching the halfway milestone. These days with all the complexities of AC electrical and fit-outs the halfway point is reached at so called “lock up“ when the wall claddings and windows are installed.

Roof wetting often included the placement of a pine branch at apex of the roof to celebrate all the timber (or steel from the ground) that has been harvested to create the structure of the building. The tree also reflected the sense of growth and rooting into place.

The origins come from Scandinavia Vikings and has spread throughout the world.

These wettings used to happen with most significant projects and houses too but disappeared in the late 1980s with increased work place safety. The focus was always on it being a big celebration and thanks. We would definitely enjoy the idea of bringing back the notion of celebrating and paying thanks to those involved and the craftmanship and materials that have gone in to the project.

Image: The celebrations started with a tour of the whole building

The afternoon started with a tour of the college, led by one of our Directors, Roger Mainwood. All the visitors were exposed to the various levels and rooms as well as the design intent behind the layout, quality of the materials and construction processes, as well as visions for future expansion.

Did you know that the Multi-Purpose Hall, innovatively located on the second level of the building and accessible by stairs and a lift, will be one of the safest places in Cairns? Designed as a Level 3 importance building, Newman College has been engineered to withstand cyclones and earthquakes and will be available as a community gathering hub and disaster recovery centre.

Every detail of the building has been carefully considered by specialist teams, from designers and builders to tradesmen and construction specialists. Here are some of the building’s details:

The ultra safe Multi-Purpose Hall and some of the very first students that will grace the rooms of the school from 2022:

The tour was followed by some speeches and a barbeque buffet and drinks. It is safe to say, this wetting was not only one of the first held in decades but also one of the most enjoyable afternoons.

Images: Speeches, food and drinks

Targa Racing Team Sponsored by TPG Architects Won First in Class

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Kennedy Racing for the 2021 Targa Great Barrier Reef event

TPG Architects were part of an exciting car racing event held in Far North Queensland, the Targa Great Barrier Reef 2021. We are proud to have sponsored one of the littlest cars, and they came first in the GT (SPA) series in their 3 cylinder, 1.6 lt, 270 hp and that at 7.6 lt/100. Not bad!

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Kennedy Racing for the 2021 Targa Great Barrier Reef event

Kennedy Racing is a husband and wife team: David Kennedy (driver) and Isabella Kennedy (navigator). They have always loved cars (and going fast in them), so when the Targa event came to Cairns, they jumped at the chance. They uniquely participated in Targa Great Barrier Reef 2019 and 2020 in the Tour Category (non-competitive). David also competed in a number of Bitumen events at Springmount Raceway in Mareeba, walking away with a number of trophies. 

They decided to take their love of driving to the next level to race competitively in the GT Sports Trophy Category in Targa Great Barrier Reef 2021. To do this, they bought a rally car, fitted it with a roll cage, race seats, and harnesses and a number of performance modifications. 

With the support of their sponsors, they competed in the 2021 Targa Great Barrier Reef event. Despite some technical issues with the car that plagued them on Day 1, they walked away with a 1st on Bamboo Creek stage, 2nd on Moregatta stage, 3rd on the Sluice Creek and Palmerstone 2 stages, and 4th on Mareeba, Evelyn, Palmerstone 1, and Mungalli stages. They were also presented with the award for being 1st in their class (ST-A).

“We had such a great time competing in Targa, and it is safe to say that we are now hooked. Our next challenge is competing in the 30th Anniversary Targa Tasmania 2022. It is expected that more than 400 entries across TARGA’s range of classes will see TARGA Tasmania 30 feature the largest motorsport competition field in the world. We could not be more excited to compete again.” - The Kennedys

We, at TPG Architects, feel honoured to have played a little part in their racing journey and wish them only success and enjoyment in this endeavour going forward.

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Kennedy Racing for the 2021 Targa Great Barrier Reef event

Kennedy Racing Results Table

TPG Staff with TPG Architects logo proudly displayed on the littlest Kennedy Racing Car