Our Gin Gin SHS project recently won two awards

Gin Gin State High School’s New Administration Building won two awards – including JW Wilson Award for Building of the Year – at the Central Queensland Regional Architecture Awards.

Mancel College Building 1 is in the running for the EmAGN Project Award at the Queensland Architecture Awards.

The building was applauded by the jury for its “inclusive, practical and distinctive” design, winning the JW Wilson Award for Building of the Year, and a Regional Commendation for Educational Architecture.

These accolades mean the project is now shortlisted for the Queensland State Awards, which will be announced in Brisbane on Fri 21 June 2024.

The New Administration building is a multipurpose structure, which serves as the primary entrance to the school with a new foyer, reception, conference room and staff area.

The jury commended Giarola Architects for creating “a facility that addresses the needs of the broader school community.”

In their citation, the jury wrote:

“A gently curving rammed earth wall that references the rural setting creates a welcoming entry to this new administration building. Its restrained form sits comfortably in the context of the school and the rolling hills of the outskirts of Gin Gin. The internal program is rational and efficient, with a clear spatial hierarchy and well resolved details.… Understated but confident, the design provides Gin Gin State High School with a public face that is inclusive, practical, and distinctive.”

In addition, Giarola Architect’s Mancel College Building 1 project – in Brisbane’s Fig Tree Pocket, for our client Language Disorder Australia – is shortlisted in the Queensland State Awards in the EmAGN project category.

This landmark project – which initiated a comprehensive campus redevelopment – creates a holistic, inclusive educational environment for students from Prep to Year 12.

Its innovative design features multifaceted classrooms that open up to vibrant outdoor learning spaces, fostering an interactive and adaptive learning experience. The building’s design respects its picturesque creekside location, integrating sustainable practices and nurturing a connection with nature.

Mancel College Building 1 exemplifies a fusion of environmental mindfulness, architectural ingenuity, and a deep commitment to catering to the unique educational needs of its students.

We’re proud of both of these recent education projects, and grateful for our clients who engaged us to create innovative and inclusive teaching and learning facilities.

Project credits:

Gin Gin State High School New Administration Building

TRADITIONAL LAND OWNERS:
Taribelang Bunda, Gooreng Gooreng, Gurang, and Bailai Peoples

BUILDER:
New State Builders

PHOTOGRAPHER:
Paul Beutel Photography

Mancel College Building 1

TRADITIONAL LAND OWNERS:
Turrbal and Yuggera

BUILDER:
FDC Construction & Fitout

PHOTOGRAPHER:
Highshots Photography