Queensland Ballet is the first performing arts organisation in the world to gain the highest healthy building rating for its home – the Thomas Dixon Centre.
The development has earned a WELL Platinum level certification.
Buildings that meet the standard must perform well across 10 categories of air, thermal comfort, light, community, mind, movement, water, sound, materials and nourishment.
The Thomas Dixon Centre was 10 years in the making. The development involved a complex restoration of the heritage-listed building, adaptive re-use of its spaces, and the addition of new facilities including the 351 seat Talbot Theatre, six dance studios, a wellness suite, dancer facilities, a rooftop terrace, bar, and restaurant.
Queensland Ballet executive director Dilshani Weerasinghe said the achievement of the WELL certification was a result of relentless dedication of many visionaries and partners.
“This demonstrates our commitment to the wellbeing of all those who interact with the Thomas Dixon Centre including artists, arts workers, arts students, participants in our dance health programs, and the wider community,” Ms Weerasinghe said.
“Rare projects such as this one require a rare team, tenacious bold and generous.
“I would like to acknowledge Li Cunxin AO, former Artistic Director; Brett Clark AM, Board Chair; the Department of Housing, Local Government, Planning and Public Works; our Visionary Donors and Capital Partners; xburo engineers, led by Ellis Wilson, Hansen Yuncken, David Gole and Tamarind Taylor from Architectus Conrad Gargett, and QB’s Director of Precincts and Capital Projects, Lucas Gilroy, for sharing our vision and their determination in realising it.”
Architectus Conrad Gargett lead architect Tamarind Taylor and project director David Gole said they were privileged with to have been involved in the journey of the Thomas Dixon Centre.
“It’s not merely about architecture – it embodies a vision of wellness in the use and life of the building,” they said. “This commitment embraces the entire Company, the West End community, and the Arts at large.”
International WELL Building Institute vice president Asia Pacific, Jack Noonan, applauded the gong.
“This is an iconic and unique project internationally,” Mr Noonan said. “We applaud the leadership in prioritising the wellbeing of performers, students, faculty, and the community it serves.”
The achievement is a long-term pledge to maintain the highest standards for the benefit of the community. The Thomas Dixon Centre is a pioneering precinct, highlighting the importance of human-centered design.
Queensland Ballet project manager Julia Lebiocka who led the certification process said; “I hope we inspire developers across Brisbane to pursue Queensland Ballet’s people-first approach, facilitating the creation of healthy spaces to support the best performance and production outcomes, and enhancing community engagement.”
For a tour of the Thomas Dixon Centre, book online at thomasdixoncentre.com.au. Or visit the centre as part of the Brisbane Open House festivities on the weekend of 13-14 July.
