Queensland
Brisbane
Blue Bower is an architectural postcard from Brisbane to Seoul. An urban pavilion which emerged from a design-driven research proposal conducted through UQ in response to an invitation to submit an entry to ‘Global Studios: Crossroads’ at the 2021 Seoul Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism. It was constructed in two iterations the first presented in Seoul, South Korea the second at St. Lucia, Brisbane.
Blue Bower’s vibrant monochrome reflects the ‘Blue City’ of Seoul, inspired by the potentials in cultural appropriation of this symbolic colour and the opportunities to engage meaning through materiality within the display of the pavilion.
Blue Bower celebrates the convergence of Australian professional architectural expertise, industry partners and academic research and educators in a globalised context. The real protagonists have been the students who have engaged in the immersive process of design and construction. Blue Bower is evidence of an effective learning vehicle for architectural collaboration.
A conceptual project that explores the possibilities of making temporary urban shelter, and already recognised in international design exhibitions, Blue Bower explores lightweight, low cost, and transportable prefabrication techniques, challenging public notions of refuge and resilience in the urban context.
Recreated in the University of Queensland’s Great Court, Blue Bower’s distinctive monochromatic blue elements distinguish it as a piece of urban furniture that serves the public.
Blue Bower pavilion marks a strategic partnership between UQ School of Architecture and firm Phorm architecture + design, advancing the School’s architectural design research agenda and outreach. Academics and practitioners involved in the project have engaged with undergraduate and postgraduate students, offering new learning opportunities, and providing mentorship translating innovative urban ideas into built form. The pavilion’s ‘journey’ has enhanced the visibility of collaborations across academia, architectural profession and industry in the national and international public domain through two major cultural events in South Korea and Australia – a great achievement for our research dissemination and impact.
Dr Antony Moulis, Project Lead
Dr Silvia Micheli, Project Lead
Nicola White, Graduate of Architecture
Paul Hotston, Project Architect
Cameron Changuion, Site Coordination
Hudson Smith, Project Manager
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
