Silverstone Developments has announced it is planning a seven-storey medical research facility with 11,700 square metres of purpose-built life sciences, research, medical technology, and education accommodation in Queensland’s largest health precinct, Herston.
The Brisbane-based developer says it has lodged a development application for the medical mixed-use development on a site in Butterfield Street, Herston.
Managing director Troy Daffy said, “The proposed development, named Brisbane Advanced Research Centre and designed by Wilson Architects, would provide a state-of-the-art product that expands on the world-class facilities at the adjacent Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH).
“We have designed this facility to create high-quality, advanced medical research and education spaces to service the life sciences sector. This is a very important growth industry for our city and we are fortunate to have such a well-located site in that research and medical precinct,” said Mr Daffy.
The seven-storey building will include four levels of laboratory space plus a multi-level auditorium above and complementary retail. The facility includes specialist design requirements such as additional plant and services infrastructure, fire systems, industrial loading capacity, hospital-sized lifts and large floor-to-floor heights.
The Brisbane Advanced Research Centre will include end-of-trip facilities, a wellness room, a ground floor café, and 118 car parking bays.
Wilson Architects’ Michael Hartwich said the design strategy was to highlight the importance of creating welcoming and engaging places that connect with the landscape and context.
“We are excited by the opportunity for this development to activate this precinct, positively contribute and engage with the community,” he said.
“The ‘Lily pad’ entrance and open, activated ground floor plane seek to create a unique and engaging environment within the local context, while complementing the precinct’s existing healthcare infrastructure. Landscaped terraces and elements of coloured pre-cast concrete, perforated screens, reflective panel linings and full height glazing combine to establish a cutting-edge aesthetic that remains sympathetic to the surrounding environment.”
“The design also recognises the importance of sustainability,” he said. "We have focused on best practice sustainability, considering occupant wellness and building longevity through integrated environmental strategies.”
Sustainable building initiatives include increased landscaping, solar panels, electric car charging, building efficiency through services, waste and emissions management, and long-life construction materials.
The Herston Health Precinct is a global leader in health, innovation, education, research, training and clinical care and is a collaborative community home to more than 30 health facilities, medical research institutes, universities, and organisations.