Boilerhouse Discovery Space designers announced

Architectus and James Cubitt Architects to transform UNE Boilerhouse

We are thrilled to announce that we have been selected, in partnership with James Cubitt Architects, as the principal design consultant for the $15 million Boilerhouse Discovery Space, where we will lead an impressive multi-disciplinary team collaborating with the University of New England and its community to bring new life and visitors to the former industrial site.

Encouraging children to explore and develop an interest in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and maths) disciplines, the Boilerhouse Discovery Space will include spaces dedicated to music and performance, space and the universe, ecosystems, geology and archaeology, patterns and numbers, agriculture, energy, brain building and, construction.

The Boilerhouse Discovery Space will become only the second dedicated children’s discovery place in Australia, behind the Early Start Discovery Space at the University of Wollongong.

The design and development team will include leading mechanical engineers Arup, structural and civil engineers Bligh Tanner, children’s space design specialists Arterial, and landscape architects Aspect Studios. Under the leadership of Architectus and JCA, the team will spend the next 6-9 months working with the UNE community and user groups, including UNE scientists and early childhood education experts to develop a blueprint for the interactive space.

Architectus Principal and National Public Sector Leader Dr Stephen Long said, “With some projects we have to generate energy around the build, but with the Boilerhouse that energy already exists within the building.

“It’s our responsibility to respond to its dynamic spaces and awaken the young minds and senses of all those who visit. This building has the potential to influence and shape lives.”

JCA principal Paul Chrismas said, “It’s wonderful that this is happening in regional NSW, not in a big city.

“This discovery space will be valuable to the children of New England, NSW, and as far north as Queensland, who don’t normally have access to the galleries and museums found in major capital cities.”

Construction tenders are expected to be called next year and it is planned that the Boilerhouse Discovery Space will open in mid-2023.

Read more about the University of New England Boilerhouse Discovery Space here.