New Arts Precinct

Premis undertook a significant adaptive reuse project at Griffith University’s Conservatorium of Music, transforming the Rednote Café into a vibrant new space for the arts. This two-stage project began with the demolition of the existing café, including its mechanical, electrical, and water services.

The café’s space was cleverly repurposed to accommodate two new performing arts studios and a student common room, alongside a revamped courtyard. The studio fitouts included sound-rated walls and acoustic panels, timber floors with acoustic underlay, and specialised lighting with specialist lighting bars suspended from the concrete soffit above, to adapt to different performance needs. An operable wall was installed to allow the space to expand or divide as required, enhancing its versatility. To complete the setup, full-length mirrors, and all new services—including audio-visual, lighting, data, and fire safety systems—were integrated.

A significant part of the project focused on upgrading the mechanical plant. This involved the installation of four new air handling units, necessitating a reconfiguration of space to accommodate these enhancements. The common room or breakout area was designed to be a welcoming space for relaxation and informal learning. It featured a kitchenette with fixed bench seating and decorative timber acoustic paneling that improved both the aesthetics and the acoustics of the space. The selection of mixed flooring—carpet and vinyl—along with updated lighting and services, completed the enhancements.

Outside, the transformation continued in the courtyard. The old decks were demolished to make way for two larger decks using FRP grating and joists, supported by a structural steel organising frame that provided both structural and visual function. A new stage, complete with roof, lighting bars, and essential services for specialist lighting and audio-visual setups turned the courtyard into a perfect venue for outdoor performances. Landscaping updates with new plants and gravel bedding completed the courtyard’s transformation.

Key Challenges:

• Latent Conditions: The project encountered undocumented services both inside and in the courtyard area. Specifically, unstable ground in the courtyard necessitated a redesign of the concrete footings. Additionally, numerous design changes were required to meet the client’s functional needs, and these were worked through in close collaboration with the client and design team.
• Access Issues: The logistics of moving materials in and out of the courtyard posed a challenge due to limited space and a lengthy route to the project area and truck pickup/drop-off zone. This was managed by using bulka bags on pallets and pallet trucks to transport materials to the pickup area.

This project transformed a previously underutilised area into a modern, functional space for the Conservatorium, offering students improved facilities for learning and performing.

Photos Conrad Gargett