Ambrose Treacy College – Waterford Precinct | m3architecture

Ambrose Treacy College - Waterford Precinct | m3architecture | Photographer: Christopher Frederick Jones

2026 National Architecture Awards Program

Ambrose Treacy College – Waterford Precinct | m3architecture

Traditional Land Owners

Turrbal and Yuggera

Year
2026
Chapter

Queensland

Region

Brisbane

Category
Educational Architecture
Builder
Stokes Wheeler
Photographer
Christopher Frederick Jones
Media summary

The Waterford Precinct draws its identity from the Irish port city that shaped Edmund Rice and Patrick Ambrose Treacy, translating this heritage into a contemporary architectural expression. Inspired by Waterford Crystal, the façade features refined cut‑glass forms, while College symbols—including the open book, five‑pointed star, Celtic Cross, Claddagh, Laurel Wreath and an ancient meeting symbol—are subtly embedded in concrete, joinery and glazing. A tessellated Penrose pattern links Treacy’s mathematical background with the project’s crystalline language.

The four‑storey building delivers senior learning spaces and staff facilities, with a new north wing joining the existing south wing to create a central courtyard connected by bridges. At ground level, a sheltered gathering zone links the courtyard to the ironbark forest and completes the campus’s academic spine.

Designed for durability and flexibility, the precinct incorporates linear classrooms, breakout corridors and an integrated auditorium, providing a robust, future‑ready environment for senior students.

"The Waterford Project has transformed how our community connects and learns. Its welcoming ground floor creates a vibrant hub for students and community gatherings, while the first floor seamlessly links to the College, offering collaborative spaces for staff and visitors. Above, fourteen flexible rooms empower dynamic teaching, professional development, and major events. The striking glass façade tells our story while delivering comfort and light control, blending beauty with performance. This design isn’t just a building—it’s a catalyst for creativity, belonging, and educational excellence."

Project Practice Team

Ben Vielle, Design Architect
Lindsay Grundy, Project Architect
Tim Samios, Project Architect
Joseph Pappalardo, Project Architect

Project Consultant and Construction Team

Reel Planning, Town Planner
EDGE Consulting, Civil Consultant
EDGE Consulting, Structural Engineer
MTS (MultiTech Solutions), Mechanical, Hydraulic and Electrical
WSP, Fire Engineer
AboutTech, AV Consultant
MTS (MultiTech Solutions), ESD Consultant
Schindler, Lifts
Stantec, Acoustic Consultant
Bligh Tanner, Facade
FSDA (Food Services Design Australia), Kitchen Consultant
Steele Wrobel, Quantity Surveyor
DMLA (Dunn Moran Landscape Architect), Landscape Consultant

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