JCU The Science Place

The Science Place is a multi-level, joint teaching and research facility, that combines state-of-the-art laboratories and technology-enabled active learning spaces.

The project was the first educational building in Australia to achieve a LEED Gold rating, and the first building in Queensland to seek any LEED rating.

Extensive building simulation modelling was used to optimise daylight and views whilst protecting the indoor environment from direct heat gain from the tropical sun. Every aspect of the project was considered for sustainability options, from sourcing sustainable and local materials, to working with researchers to consider how their work could be showcased in the building.

This continued into construction, working closely with Lend Lease to ensure that local trades were trained in the reporting requirements for the LEED submission, and ensuring high levels of waste recycling were achieved.

dsquared worked in collaboration with local QLD sustainability consultancy Ecomplish, who prepared this case study film.