UQ Res Kev Carmody House

“The Student Residences Project (SRP) will deliver a residential experience that is consistent with a world class university, a place that contributes to the development of leaders, critical thinkers and problem solvers who are socially adept, culturally aware and confident in their abilities and skills.  The University of Queensland’s (UQ) intention is to deliver a well-designed accommodation facility that develops into an inclusive community of student residences.  The aim is for the SRP to reflect the University’s mission, vision and values by providing students with excellent, affordable, life-changing accommodation and support, and an outstanding overall university experience.” – UQ Design Brief

UQ Res Kev Carmody House is designed to create a welcoming and vibrant on-campus community which is active, social, and connected to the landscape. An abundance of common spaces offers a uniquely Queensland living experience for students as a memorable home away from home.

Named after celebrated indigenous storyteller and UQ alumni, Kev Carmody House sits atop a prominent hill within the St Lucia campus with sweeping views to the city, campus, and Mt Cootha. Generous social spaces are integrated over 16 stories, with 610 student rooms arranged within community groups on typical levels.

The hierarchy of common spaces begin at entry level with the larger, active common rooms framing a series of north facing gardens. Planning focuses on the central integration of the original Queenslander ‘Cairngorm’ built in 1901 and sensitively restored to its former glory with family style rooms. The communal kitchen pavilion represents the heart of the common spaces, with grand volumes that reference the Queenslander gable roofline, and provide an abundance of natural light which encourages students to dine together. More intimate, flexible common rooms on typical levels are designed at arrival points and open stairs and paired with community groups or ‘wings’, which encourage social interaction and open up the floorplates to natural light and ventilation. The rooftop pool and recreation deck celebrate the panoramic campus and city views with flexible entertaining areas, as well as more intimate gathering spaces with framed views to Great court and the greater campus.