PDT Architects has designed the $67-million refurbishment of Brisbane Central Station in Queensland.
The renewal works include a new roof to extend over the Edward Street end of the concourse, modernization of platforms, new lifts and modernization of stairs and escalators, a new escalator from the concourse to Anzac Square to reduce congestion and the refurbishment of back-of-house facilities including offices, a communications room and first aid area.
“The upgrade will re-establish a sense of identity, destination and class at Central Station. There will be a significant improvement in access, future proofing for growth and a level of design that will contend on an international level,” the PDT design team said.
PDT said the glass entry elements will provide a sense of address along Ann Street by framing the heritage station building and introducing natural daylight into the existing floorplate.
The extent of the outer concourse roof concept will be raised to reveal the old Central Station building to pay homage to the architecture, which dates back to the 1800s. The station was first opened in 1889.
The station platforms will also see significant transformation through an access upgrade and rejuvenation of the existing finishes palette.
An external view of the Brisbane Central Station renewal by PDT Architect.
“A holistic design approach has been adopted to resonate throughout the precinct, bringing Central into the era of modern station design, while showcasing the best of the existing features,” said PDT.
PDT said the design response is a sympathetic understanding of requirements imposed by both the Queensland climate and the need to maintain respect for the existing building context.
“Heat and ventilation studies have been undertaken at concourse and platform levels to understand the impact of the elements upon the users and the building design adapted to utilize passive mechanical ventilation strategies and refine daylight impacts,” PDT said.
The station was last renovated in the 1990s. The redesign and refurbishment of the back-of-house facilities is expected to start in September 2016, while the platform upgrade will commence in early 2017.
The project is slated to be completed in late 2018/early 2019.
