Margaret Rice Place, St Joseph’s College
BRISBANE, QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA
Margaret Rice Place is a thoughtfully designed, contextually responsive vertical learning precinct by Macksey Rush Architects for Year 5 and 6 students at St Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace. This adaptive reuse project transforms a six-storey institutional building and landscape into a dynamic learning environment designed to nurture the social, physical and pedagogical needs of young students.
Macksey Rush collaborated closely with the client to test various age groups and uses against the building’s zig-zag floor plate, budget, topography, and vertical school model – ultimately selecting an upper primary cohort.
The lower three levels accommodate high-activity community spaces such as play areas, assembly zones, the canteen, and a welcoming reception. The heart of school life resides within a two-storey amphitheatre connecting Levels 1 and 2, with introspective and flexible spaces including the library, a student wellbeing hub, a STEAM lab, and multipurpose gallery. The middle levels accommodate 14 classrooms, strategically placed to reduce vertical travel and ensure proximity to both community and specialty spaces. The upper levels are dedicated to performing arts and music- recognising their vital role in the school’s cultural life.
A new external six-storey circulation spine was introduced at the centre of the street-facing northern façade to improve movement and provide outdoor learning zones on each level, while refurbished existing stairwells now support both emergency and daily circulation. Classroom clusters welcome adjacent breakout areas and external access, offering diverse learning settings tailored to student needs.
Natural light and ventilation provided by Breezway Louvre Windows and fixed glazing are prioritised through a single-loaded corridor layout that frames expansive views across Spring Hill, Brisbane city and surrounding vegetation. Original façade elements were retained and celebrated, complemented by a restrained external palette and red accents that assist navigation. Internally, a dynamic mix of neutral tones and colour themes on each level fosters place-making and supports wayfinding.
Acoustic treatments throughout help manage noise, while generous undercroft spaces and landscape-integrated play areas support daily recreation and social development. Margaret Rice Place redefines urban education with its innovative vertical design – offering young learners an inspiring, inclusive, and adaptable space to thrive.
Architect: Macksey Rush Architects