Education, Cultural & Public

UniSC Building A4's ground-breaking MET structure - project update

UniSC Moreton Bay campus expansion stage 2 update

We're excited to share the latest images from our site walkthrough of University of Sunshine Coast (UniSC) Building A4*, an innovative Mass-Engineered Timber (MET) building that recently topped out. This is a key project milestone in UniSC’s Moreton Bay campus expansion.

KIRK designed and documented this building as part of our winning design competition entry, which included three new timber buildings.

These buildings are a first of their kind — each use Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) as the primary perimeter vertical structure, the first university buildings to do so.

Building A4 - first of its kind

Building A4 is a three storey central hub that includes student breakout areas, an events hub, teaching spaces, research and teaching labs, silent study rooms, and operational staff areas and meeting rooms.

A4 is a building of firsts:

The first MET building with a three storey atrium in Australia, connected by the seated rise (featured image)
The first PC2 lab within a MET building in Australia
The first MET university building to use CLT as its primary perimeter vertical structure

Efficiency, ecology and timber aesthetic at the heart of MET construction

Our choice of MET fabrication was, in part, a response to accommodate a tight deadline for the desired operational date.

Timber construction enabled the three-stories to be erected in just 45 days, which is far more efficient than concrete construction, and saves on cost escalation.

MET is also more sustainable than traditional construction methods.

The CLT vertical structure on the facade maximises column-free useable floor area, increasing usable space and providing a more energy-efficient building envelope.

In its simplicity, the exposed timber architecture juxtaposes the complexity of learning and research conducted within UniSC's walls. The natural finish of timber further emphasises and celebrates the relationship between building and landscape.

Such are the qualities of the Xlam and Hess timber, there is no need for painting, no need for internal refitting. I guarantee everybody that walks through will touch the building, feel its warmth, its natural qualities... The buildings will be landmarks that push the boundaries, expanding the possibilities in the minds of our students.

Kate Robertson
UniSC Senior Project Manager

A new, open building typology for UniSC Moreton Bay Campus

The Moreton Bay Campus Stage 2 Development is a fast-tracked teaching and research project for the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) - a transformative opportunity, not just for the university, but the Moreton Bay community.

The development includes a variety of teaching, learning, research, social, community and commercial facilities, and extends and enhances the University's 'Knowledge Spine', which includes public spaces, key retail/cafes, and interactive edges.

The exposed timber structure, generous windows and large light-filled atriums produce an entirely new open typology for UniSC — fit for a young university unconstrained by traditional ways. The design showcases the University as an active, growing campus, and produces a sense of gravity - drawing in students, staff and community members alike.

Find out more

Building A4 is expected to be completed by Q3 2023. A2 and A3 are under construction.

KIRK is the market leader in mass engineered timber architecture. Our portfolio of Australian and globally located education projects includes a number of ground-breaking designs. Contact us to learn more.

Read more about our winning design competition entry for UniSC Moreton Bay Campus Expansion 2.

Read more about the build in UniSC News.

Imagery by Scott Burrows.

*Formerly Building D.

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