The Design Concept

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Guidance to Architects

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Counterpoint Architecture (a Townsville-based studio) in conjunction with Phorm architecture + design was responsible for the design. 

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The DPI site had a large rectangular building dominating the block. That building was not conducive to community activity. The intent behind the design was to reflect an oasis with non-military-like lines. The design incorporated a concept for optimal use of space by veterans and their families and the communities and teams they generate. It was important to bring back to life the magnificent rain trees that now line Staging Camp Avenue. Where possible, a subtle focus on the high features of Townsville (Castle Hill, Mount Stuart) was sought. Significant features of Townsville’s WWII experience should be incorporated where that supports the other requirements. Counterpoint Architecture (with Phorm) took the brief and surpassed our expectations of what could be achieved.

Main Building

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The old administration building was cut in half. With a clever application of reuse, only that portion of the old building that was needed to give space to the site was demolished. The half that remained had several key modifications to reflect the brief. The building has numerous lines altered to remove the more formal straight lines. This was enhanced by large glass French doors, which provided a strong visual connection through the rain trees to Mount Stuart. Below them, Lavarack Barracks, home to the 3rd Brigade and supporting units, sits.

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Magnetic Island Gun Emplacement

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The round concrete structure at the heart of the courtyard area is an interpretation of a gun emplacement on Magnetic Island. This area at the Home Base serves as a central circulation node to connect all parts of the site and gives the feeling of a gathering/meeting point. This central feature has a solid cover for protection from the sun and is a pleasant place to sit outside, which is a common desire of many ex-ADF personnel.