Engineering and Innovations Place Building
James Cook University’s (JCU) Engineering Building in Townsville is a landmark project, completed in November 2023.
Designed by KIRK Architects, representing a significant step forward in sustainable and innovative architecture tailored to the tropics. At a cost of $100 million, this new campus building aims to position JCU at the forefront of tropical innovation, both nationally and internationally. The building’s design aligns with JCU’s research focus on tropical environments and aims to offer a flexible, adaptable space that can evolve with the changing demands of education and climate.
The Challenge
JCU faced the challenge of creating a sustainable, living, and performative building that would meet contemporary pedagogical needs, particularly for STEM disciplines. The university required a design that could withstand the harsh tropical climate, including increasing cyclone activity, while also providing a flexible learning environment. Additionally, JCU sought locally sourced, cost-effective furniture solutions to avoid long lead times and potential delays in maintenance and warranty support, ensuring that the furniture could be easily serviced and maintained.
Our Involvement
Our reseller, Townsville Office Furniture, supplied a range of seating solutions that met the specific needs of the project:
140 Konfurb Keen Architectural chairs
The Konfurb Keen Architectural chairs feature a stylish moulded polypropylene perforated back for comfort and an architectural gas lift and foot ring, providing additional height, making them ideal for standing desks or high benches. The yellow finish of these chairs serves as a vibrant focal point within the building’s interior.
90 Konfurb Keen Swivel chairs
The Konfurb Keen Swivel chairs offer the same ergonomic design as the architectural version, with with a lower swivel base, perfect for regular table and desk heights in a dynamic learning environment.
20 Konfurb Keen 4 Leg chairs
The Konfurb Keen 4 Leg chairs are a versatile stacking chair, providing stability and comfort, suitable for various settings within the building.
Konfurb Keen Swivel chairs and Konfurb Keen Architectural chairs in yellow.
Konfurb Keen Architectural chairs in yellow and Konfurb Keen 4 Leg chairs in blue.
Buro Lab Technician chairs.
200 Buro Enso Technician chairs
The Buro Enso Technician chair with an architectural base is designed with a non-slip, easy-to-clean surface, making it ideal for sterile and harsh environments. Its adjustable moulded PU back and seat provide ergonomic support, while the architectural gas lift ensures versatility in various high-use areas.
20 Buro Diablo chairs
The Buro Diablo chairs with a custom blue mesh adds a touch of sleek sophistication to the university’s spaces, combining contemporary design with exceptional comfort. Its dynamic seating promotes active sitting and provides excellent lumbar support, making it ideal for areas where students and staff engage in extended periods of study or collaborative work.
Buro Diablo chairs with custom upholstered blue mesh.
Konfurb Keen Architectural chairs in yellow.
The Result
The integration of these seating solutions into the JCU Engineering Building has helped create a flexible and adaptable learning environment that aligns with the university’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The high-quality construction of the furniture ensures durability and longevity, backed by a comprehensive guarantee, aligning with the building’s commitment to sustainability and long-term value. The use of locally sourced furniture also ensured that the project met its sustainability goals, ensuring quick access to parts for maintenance and repairs.
The Konfurb Keen chairs, particularly in their striking yellow finish, have become a defining feature of the building, embodying the vibrancy and forward-thinking ethos of JCU’s approach to education in the tropics.
