Thornton | bureau^proberts

Thornton | bureau^proberts | Photographer: Christopher Frederick Jones

2025 National Architecture Awards Program

Thornton | bureau^proberts

Traditional Land Owners

Turrbal

Year
2025
Chapter

Queensland

Region

Brisbane

Category
Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing
Builder
Hutchinson Builders
Photographer
Christopher Frederick Jones
Media summary

Thornton brings together several design initiatives in a development that is emblematic of its subtropical city and context at Kangaroo Point in Brisbane. Thornton’s tower utilises a sustainable approach to design by incorporating cross-ventilation into each single-floor unit, cooling the spaces and creating a connection to the surroundings. It achieves this through a subtle sculptural approach to a highly refined glass façade, which gently folds at each floor to create a rhythm reflective of the iconic Queenslander houses that once stood on the peninsula. The glass is insulated and patterned with a ceramic frit that reduces heat load and enhances the folding pattern. Most importantly, this approach provides apartment homes with the qualities of the houses that once occupied this site. By balancing the integration of a heritage-listed building with a striking contemporary tower, Thornton enhances its riverfront setting, contributing to Kangaroo Point’s evolving identity.

Thornton is an excellent example of achieving balance between the commercial requirements of development and the vision of design – a considered and respectful scheme that works with its challenging site, rather than against it. We are proud of our project for its architectural identity, its contribution to its riparian setting and its deep consideration of its inhabitants. Residents are overwhelmed with the buildings ability to generously provide light, privacy, ventilation and comfort – without compromise on spatial planning. We are excited to see its lasting impression on its city context and hope it serves as an influence for future subtropical development.

Project Practice Team

Terry McQuillan, Design Architect
Liam Proberts, Design Architect
Dan Liddy, Design Lead
Nathan Lane, Project Architect
Myles Roberts, Architect
Tasmin Blatchford, Interior Designer

Project Consultant and Construction Team

Mewing Planning Consultants, Town Planner
LatStudio, Landscape Consultant
OSKA, Structural Engineer
FVS Services, Mechanical
OSKA, Civil Consultant
Walkerbai Consulting, Electrical Consultant
SJM Hydraulics, Hydraulic Consultant
i-FIRE Engineers, Fire
ESCO Energy Solutions, ESD Consultant
TTM, Traffic

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