The Queensland Cultural Centre (QCC), designed by Robin Gibson, is intrinsic to the urban fabric of Brisbane, forming the backdrop of the city for the last four decades. As the city heads toward the world stage for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, we reflect on this iconic precinct and its role in shaping the city’s identity.
The Queensland Art Gallery opened first in 1982, followed by the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) in 1985, Queensland Museum in 1986, and State Library of Queensland in 1988. The addition of the Playhouse Theatre completed Gibson’s original masterplan in 1998.In 2015, the four original buildings were state heritage-listed. The 2006 Millenium Library Project, celebrating 20-years in 2026, transformed and renewed the LIbrary for a new century, and in 2026, QPAC entered a new chapter with the addition of the Glasshouse Theatre. Designed by Brisbane’s own Blight Rayner, in partnership with Snøhetta, its undulating façade brings a new vernacular to South Bank, and the broader cultural precinct.
Through four decades of alterations, renovations, and additions—all while showcasing local and worldwide talent—QCC has continued to evolve as one of Brisbane’s most significant public precincts. Its enduring legacy invites us to consider several questions: what defines a successful public building? How do we ensure modern icons remain protected amid rapid urban growth, and what does that process look like? And how should new additions respond to this significant heritage context?
Speakers:
Don Watson
Don Watson is a well-known Queensland architect whose career spans university teaching, research, advocacy and practice, including with the Queensland Department of Public Works. He has researched key aspects of the local architectural tradition, particularly the lives and work of architects who have practised in Queensland, and led the Australian Institute of Architects’ successful nomination of the Queensland Cultural Centre for heritage listing. An adjunct professor at the University of Queensland, his honours include the AIA’s Robin Boyd Award (1989) and Gold Medal (2021).
Michael Rayner AM
Michael Rayner is a director of Blight Rayner Architecture with Jayson Blight. Notable projects include the Glasshouse Theatre, the Kangaroo Point Bridge and the National Rugby Training Centre at Ballymore. His recent honours include the Brisbane Lord Mayor’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the Australian Urban Design Champion Award and the Property Council of Australia Queensland Industry Impact Award. Michael is an Adjunct Professor at The University of Queensland and Griffith University, City Centre Advisor to Brisbane City Council, and a member of the Queensland Urban Design and Places Panel.
Megan Franks and Grace Liu
Megan Franks and Grace Liu are registered architects and exhibition designers at QAGOMA. Megan’s practice bridges architecture, art and public experience, moving from bespoke homes and high-rise residential projects into the cultural sector, where she collaborates with artists, curators and institutions to translate artistic ideas into spatial experiences. Grace combines training in interior design and architecture with over a decade of practice in Brisbane; since joining QAGOMA in 2012 she has worked with internationally renowned artists, most recently Olafur Eliasson studio on the exhibition Presence.
This program is generously supported by the State Library of Queensland to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Millennium Arts Project.