Infrastructure as a catalyst for change 

As Brisbane stands poised on the brink of an economic and cultural renaissance, the opportunity to join the growing business of Woods Bagot in Queensland created a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to strategic design solutions for generations to come.  

Brisbane’s economy is burgeoning, projected to reach a staggering $275 billion by 2041[1]. This economic vitality is complemented by a demographic boom, creating a ripe opportunity to positively shape Brisbane’s infrastructural landscape as the city prepares the global stage for the 2032 Olympics. 

Key infrastructural projects already in place, like the Brisbane Metro, Cross River Rail and the Queen’s wharf development, in addition to those that are very advanced – the Dexus Eagle St development, are all reshaping the city’s physical and socioeconomic contours. These projects are not just about enhancing connectivity but are also platforms for cutting-edge architectural designs that reflect Brisbane’s evolution.  

Design Philosophy: Beyond Aesthetics 

Design is a dialogue – an essential tool for addressing the tangible needs of our urban environments. It’s about creating spaces that are adaptable, inclusive and capable of fostering economic and social vitality.  

Resting against the gentle waters of the Brisbane River, the city’s subtropical climate provides a unique backdrop for design that would not be possible in other capital cities.  

Take, for example, 80 Ann Street, an incredibly beautiful mixed-use space. Breathable floors with natural ventilation are only possible in the humid atmosphere, anchored by a permeable and porous ground plane. The fabulous interaction between the immersive indigenous landscape and the spectacular digital canvas is a unique response to this incredible subtropical climate. 

Creative design can solve problems, create opportunities, and facilitate human connection. The question we should be asking over the next 10 years is, “how can we be looking to ensure a meaningful legacy through the new facilities near the new Olympic site?” The momentum and confidence will define the future of this city. 

Building a sense of community 

The vision for Brisbane is not just about growth, but about creating dynamic, sustainable and inclusive urban spaces. Transformative placemaking has the power to connect the people of Brisbane in a manner that is a key signature of this place. The expansiveness of upcoming development in Brisbane provides a ripe opportunity for embedding this practice on a large scale. 

Evidence of how the people of Brisbane have embraced the strength of community is clearly featured in the Woods Bagot projects that have become the signature of the city – The Standard, Howard Smith Wharves and 80 Ann St. 

Space as a service 

At the centre of Brisbane’s economic advancement, the office is a sandbox for adaptive spaces. Future placemaking reflects a broader vision where space is a service that must be responsive to the needs of its users, with current data[2] indicating a shift towards more dynamic and responsive workplaces. 

Trying to decide how much space will be required over the next 5 or 10 years is a difficult dilemma for many companies, and as a result, significant leasing deals have been few and far between. Now that the return to the workplace has begun to stabilise, we are in a position where we can make informed decisions about the future.  

We are seeing more flexibility in lease structures and an allowance for the occupiers to expand and contract at relatively short notice, and an increase in base building amenity. We need to carefully consider the diverse needs of users, as buildings will compete based on amenity levels, brand and customer service.  

The workplace needs to be a magnet, not a mandate – a sentiment that is the focus for each space we create.  

Global-local Nexus 

As Australia’s closest major city to East Asia, Brisbane is the gateway to the Asia Pacific. With two-thirds of overseas-born Australian residents originating from east Asian countries[3], Brisbane is uniquely primed to create a collaborative landscape, integrating advancements from the world’s most innovative cities.    

My dual role connects me with global insight leaders across 17 studios, which enhances our practice locally and strengthens relationships with our clients and teams. Connectivity is critical. The ability to reach out to a counterpart with first-hand experience on a significant or innovative project allows our teams to integrate world-leading expertise while retaining the unique local character of each city we represent.  

Cultivating a distinct brand for Brisbane 

Gone are the days when you can make short-term decisions – every project that is undertaken will in some way inform the evolution of Brisbane. As we seek to amplify the liveability of the city, we have an opportunity to really differentiate Brisbane is and what it stands for – an opportunity to define our future.