Image credit: Christopher Frederick Jones

Designed by Cox Rayner Architects with Hames Sharley and Conrad Gargett Riddel, the Oral Health Centre has won a number of architectural awards since its construction. Designed with sustainable principles in mind, architects were challenged to design a facility that not only eliminates its impact on the environment, but also minimised the trepidation and anxiety often felt when going to the dentist.

The result is an inviting sequence of spaces, engaging students, staff and the public. Collaborative learning environments, laboratories, interconnected pathways, study spaces and common areas connect with the outside environment, inviting ample natural light. The sloping site allows public levels and clinics to be located low and adjacent to parkland, contributing to a feeling of calm.

This building incorporates numerous sustainability initiatives, including passive design, solar power, the re-use of old building materials and on-site water treatment.

Awards:

• Environmental Architecture Award 2016 Queensland Architecture Awards

• F.D.G. Stanley Award 2016 Queensland Architecture Awards

• Interior Architecture Award 2016 Queensland Architecture Awards

• The Daryl Jackson Award for Educational Architecture 2016 National Architecture Awards

• National Award for Interior Architecture 2016 National Architecture Awards

• National Award for Sustainable Architecture 2016 National Architecture Awards

• Sustainability Advancement Award 2017 Australian Interior Design Awards