This once-in-a-lifetime project required innovative fire safety solutions to be put in place – while still respecting the historic fabric of the building.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀:

→ The Gunnery, built circa 1900, features a beautiful masonry façade and timber structure, creating a unique challenge in balancing modern fire safety codes with heritage preservation.
→ The most complex aspect was exposing the timber structure while ensuring it complied with current fire safety standards.
→ Coordination between heritage, architectural, and structural teams was essential to maintain the integrity of the building while upgrading fire safety.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀:

→ Minerva collaborated closely with the structural engineer and builder to rectify and strengthen the exposed structural timber, meeting the required Fire Resistance Level (FRL).
→ We partnered with a specialist intumescent paint manufacturer to protect key timber and steel elements, providing vital fire protection while maintaining the building’s character.
→ Flexible fire safety solutions were implemented to accommodate varying uses and population numbers within the building.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀:

→ The Gunnery has been restored as a functional, safe space that retains its unique historical features, including expanded galleries, rent-free studios, and full universal access.
→ This transformation project was underpinned by a 35-year sublease, ensuring future generations can enjoy this landmark for years to come.

Our approach took into account the constraints of the existing fire safety strategy while still enabling flexibility – all while supporting the architectural vision of this incredible building.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀:

→ The Andrew N Liveris Building (where the Hub is housed) is a multi-use facility comprising education, laboratories and office space with a significant atrium in the centre.
→ The existing fire strategy for the base build is complex to say the least with various measures to meet the unique functionality.
→ Installing new laboratory areas within a complex building requires a sound understanding of the base build fire strategy to ensure all aspects are considered.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀:

→ Working with designers to assist their understanding of the base build fire strategy in order to stay within the constraints and to allow flexibility where needed.
→ Supporting the design of additional laboratory space with rationalised FRLs.
→ Assisting design outcomes through fire engineered egress provisions.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀:

→ Additional laboratory space that supports the University of Queensland into the future.
→ Supporting the architectural vision and user needs
→ A building that has put fire safety first, for the ultimate safety of every person who enters now and into the future