UQ Brisbane City

Located in the impressive heritage-listed Queensland National Bank building originally built in 1881, the Atrium is UQ’s new space for professional development, networking and events. Designed and built as a space for connection in Brisbane’s CBD, UQ has combined the state’s history with a commitment to its future; and heritage with contemporary technology to create a new public room for the city.

308 Queen Street is one of the earliest surviving bank buildings in Brisbane and is one of the finest works attributed to architect Francis Drummond Greville (FDG) Stanley. Its heritage listing states that it is a significant example of the Classical Revival style, distinguished by the quality of its detailing and materials.

The Atrium celebrates the forms, symmetry and decorative elements characteristic of the original building’s Classical Revival style, while adding a range of identifiable insertions and interventions that reticulate new technologies and services throughout the space.

The 308 Queen Street building is considered one of the best examples of Classical Revival architecture in Queensland. The former Queensland National Bank head office offers rare insight into the state’s architectural history: it was a substantial and important 1880s commercial building in the Brisbane CBD and has retained a high degree of external and internal intactness, including much of the original fixture.

The building has a special association with the life and work of prominent Queensland architect, Francis Drummond Greville (FDG) Stanley, and is one of the finest works attributed to him. Construction was headed by Southhall & Tracey, beginning in 1881 and completed in 1885.

After purchasing the heritage-listed site in 2019, UQ cleverly restored the building in a way that preserves its history. Refurbished by BVN Architecture, with heritage consultant Conrad Gargett and builder FDC, the grand interior features high ceilings, glazed roofs and giant order columns.

The incredible dome in The Atrium at 308 Queen Street is believed to be the only one of its kind left in Queensland and is reminiscent of the dome in the famous Plaza Hotel in New York City. Geometric shapes from the dome design have become an integral part of the refurbishment, incorporated into the carpet, tables and benches.

During the refurbishment, the building’s historical secrets were uncovered. Most notably, buried under tar, lino and layers of carpet, was beautiful but damaged marble flooring from 1885. Rather than covering or removing it, UQ engaged specialist contractors to carefully clean and restore the marble to its former glory, while carefully acknowledging its battle scars.

As a former bank, the building was traditionally a very private, closed space; away from the eyes of the public. Through this restoration, UQ is fundamentally changing the building’s history, and is reopening the doors – quite literally – to welcome the community.

Join us for guided tours in the grand interior, or refreshments under the dome.

View all of the UQ Collective on this Guidemap noting that this building is in Brisbane City.