One of Queensland’s most inspirational and successful non-profit organisations is reaching new heights, with construction underway on the $12 million Project Possibility, Hear and Say’s new foundation building in Ashgrove.
Hear and Say has been improving the lives of deaf children by teaching them to hear, listen and speak since 1992, and are now looking to expand their capacity to meet the demand for programs with the use of the latest technology and teaching methods.
The Buchan Group was appointed by Hear and Say in May 2012 to provide architecture and interior design services to the landmark project, located in Nathan Avenue and delivered by contractor Matrix Projects.
The Buchan Group Senior Associate Paul Watson said that the project involved converting the abandoned Ithaca TAFE building into a vibrant and welcoming building aligned with the principles of Hear and Say.
“The design team worked closely with Hear and Say to ensure that the plans for the building met their specialised requirements,” Mr Watson said.
“With numerous Hear and Say key users involved in the design workshop process, the initial steps to convert their impressive passion into a final design brief required extensive consultation.
“Overall it was imperative that the building reflected warmth and familiarity to ensure that parents and their children felt at home and comfortable no matter where they are in the building.
“The finished building will feature an advanced acoustic design, with disability-friendly access to ensure that the different sections of the building are all part of an integrated design that maximises accessibility while retaining the family-friendly comfort that is key to Hear and Say’s philosophy.
“The design also environmentally-sustainable principles, including recycling initiatives, green waste disposal and the use of drought-resistant plants.”
Hear and Say CEO Chris McCarthy said that the new building would be a welcoming space that symbolises everything that the organisation stands for.
“Project Possibility is the culmination of years of hard work by Hear and Say to support children with hearing loss, and will form the basis of our work / moving forward as we grow as an organisation,” Mr McCarthy said.
“In our brief to The Buchan Group we made it clear that the design of the building had to be such that the finished product would have the capacity to meet the needs of future generations.
“The six key themes that guided The Buchan Group design team and represent the different parts of the building are: The Heart, The Spirit and Soul, The Brain, The Sharing Hub, The Discovery Zone, and The Body.”
For more information about Project Possibility please visit: www.projectpossibility.com.au/.
