Brisbane has long been a cultural melting pot for architecture from across the globe. However, Brisbane architecture history really begins in the 1940s. This was a time during the baby boom when affordable houses where being mass produced, leading to a shift away from the dominant traditional styles of Old English, functionalism and Art Deco.
Brisbane led the wave of modernism in Australia. Architects like Karl Langer helped to forge Brisbane’s unique architectural identity and experimental style. This lay the groundwork for values which many Brisbane designers uphold today; principles of innovation, naturalism, revivalism and minimalism. However, many of Brisbane’s important buildings still display influences from earlier important styles such as brutalist architecture – which is very popular throughout Australia as a whole.
Perhaps the most iconic symbol of Brisbane’s design is the Queenslander home. “Queenslander” architecture is easily distinguishable from other types of Australian design. The Queenslander home is extremely popular throughout the suburbs of Brisbane and of course most of Queensland. Typical features of Queenslander architecture include a classic Australian wrap-around veranda, only one story (often on stilts), large exterior staircases, gabled roofs, and timber/corrugated iron composition. Read more about Queenslander homes.
Who’s important in architecture Brisbane? Brisbane architects list and architecture firms
The unique cityscape of Brisbane has inspired and nurtured some of the nation’s greatest architects, from historical to contemporary times. Hays architecture jobs are always on the lookout. Some of the most important names when it comes to architecture in Brisbane include:
07. Modulus architecture
Modulus Architects and Land Use Planning provide innovative, architecturally designed homes and buildings to commercial and residential clients. Read more about their projects here.
06. V architecture
V architecture is a creative young firm with a passion for sustainable architecture. Read more here.
05. Idea architecture
Idearchitecture is a Brisbane based practice with multiple specialties such as landscape architecture, interior design and detached housing. They employ award winning residential architects and commercial architects alike. View the staff profiles here.
04. Core architecture
Core collective architects are an Australian owned studio with a focus on robust, elegant and sustainable works. From small scale residential to master commercial, the Core collective guide their clients rigorously through all stages of planning and building. Read more about their work here.
03. WMK architecture
WMK architecture is an internationally recognised Australian firm which has provided comprehensive services to a variety of corporate identities. Their focus on innovation, sustainability and flexibility allows their designs to reach new heights. Read more about WMK architects here.
02. BVN architecture
BVN is a global architecture firm with unprecedented commitments towards net positive design, designing with country and neighbourhood making. Their radical adaptations make them master renovation architects, repurposing existing buildings for service in the 21st century. Read more about their principle tenets here.
01. Cox architecture
Perhaps one of the most famous architectural firms in Australia, Cox Architecture is a Brisbane practice with locations in every major Australian city. Their portfolio includes multidisciplinary designs, showcasing breathtaking designs in the field of sporting, hotel, commercial, educational and residential architecture. Read more about Cox Architecture or browse a list of the top 10 architecture firms in Brisbane.
Iconic Brisbane buildings: Building design Brisbane
Now that we have taken a look at who shapes the Brisbane skyline, let’s consider what. What are the most iconic buildings in Brisbane? Well, there are a few. Here is a list of the most recognisable and important buildings in Brisbane.
5. Museum of Brisbane
The Museum of Brisbane is a grand example of neoclassical architecture. Brisbane was swept up in the design movement during the peak of its popularity in the late 1800s and through most of the 1900s.
Neoclassical architecture is a revivalist form of archaic Greek and Roman classic styles characterised by a dramatic use of columns and blank walls. For most of the Western world, neoclassical architecture was the dominant style over a period of many decades. Brisbane is no exception, and many of its important buildings reflect the importance of this heritage.
4. Calile hotel
The Calile hotel in fortitude valley is a tribute to the future of Brisbane’s design. A contemporary masterpiece which blends together aspects from multiple design styles, the Calile hotel seems a representation of Brisbane itself.
From whimsical Art Deco textures and shapes in the interior architecture to the brutalist composition of the outside balconies, this building has a touch of everything – even including neoclassical columns!
3. King George Tower
Located on 79 Adelaide street, King George tower is a remarkable office building surrounded by the best of Brisbane’s amenities. The building has been newly refurbished with 18 workstations, a quiet room, boardroom, meeting room and kitchen. It has breathtaking views of the Brisbane CBD and cityscape. King George Tower is also adjacent to King George Square, one of Brisbane’s most iconic plazas.
2. Brisbane Skytower
The Arise Skytower is the tallest building in Brisbane, standing at a height of 269.7m. It was a $1 billion project and contends for the title of one of Australia’s tallest buildings. The Skytower also features one of the world’s highest infinity edge outdoor swimming pools.
1. Brisbane City Hall
Brisbane city hall is a heritage-listed building nestled in the centre of Brisbane. It is the seat of the Brisbane City Council as well as the artistic and social community of Brisbane’s brightest stars.
