Case Study – Queensland Ballet HQ.

Project

Queensland Ballet HQ

Industry

Community & Cultural

Project Details

Queensland Ballet HQ has recently completed a $100 million refurbishment and extension of its historic home. Housed in a 110-year-old former boot factory designed by architect Richard Gailey and built in 1908, the redevelopment of the Thomas Dixon Centre has retained its original brick facade with nods to Georgian revival-style architecture throughout.

The redevelopment, which began in 2019, has been ten years in the pipeline, with Queensland Ballet raising funds to enable it to stay in its West End location. The new additions are set back from the heritage building, creating a central promenade and focal point for the building. The design is sympathetic to the building’s historic details while considering the “complexities of the workflows and operations” of the Queensland Ballet, according to head of building precincts and projects, Lucas Gilroy.

Another design objective was to provide the public with a rare glimpse of ballet beyond the stage, retaining a sense of mystique and intrigue while offering viewing opportunities into the costume workshop and dance studios.

CAG Key Deliverables

Classic Architectural Group supplied and installed all tactiles, stair nosings and floor trims for all staircases at the Queensland Ballet HQ.

Key Stats

Works included the refurbishment of the existing centre with the addition of a new three-storey extension to make way for;  

• A new 356-seat Studio Theatre built over three levels, designed to enable full-scale rehearsals and performances, with optimal sightlines from every seat.
• A soaring, welcoming promenade which celebrates the past and present, offering connections with art, artists and the community.
• Six modern rehearsal studios including a dedicated community studio for educational installations, curriculum-linked school activities and public dance programs for people of all ages.
• Dancer spaces including dressing rooms, private lounge and terrace spaces and a world-leading Wellness Suite providing medical facilities and care for injury prevention, treatment and recovery, as well as mental wellbeing.
• Five carefully restored and revitalised World War II air raid shelters converted into an intimate bar for visitors, audiences, and the public.
• 22-seat gallery featuring a floor-to-ceiling glass wall viewing into the main Studio Theatre.
• A wardrobe workroom incorporating a workshop, fitting rooms, art-finishing space, laundry, and storage.
• A casual dining café offering food and beverages aligned with WELL^TM Building Standard concepts.
• A rooftop terrace and numerous outdoor spaces providing opportunities to gather and enjoy Queensland’s beautiful weather and the buildings leafy surrounds.
• Basement car parking over two levels for 66 vehicles. 
• Administration offices, boardroom, back-of-house areas, and new amenities.

Supplied and Installed

Stair Nosings

• Classic Tredfx TKR016
• Classic Tredfx SNR109

Tactiles

• Classic Tredfx PH06P
• Classic Tredfx BH10N

Floor Trims & Covers

• Classic Tredfx TRP44R