InfrastructureLindsay SaundersThu 23 Jul 26
Design Team Unveiled for Brisbane Olympic Aquatic Centre
The Queensland Government has appointed a consortium led by ARM Architecture, NH Architecture and Brisbane-based Arkhefield to design the National Aquatic Centre, one of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games’ key venues.
The design team will develop the new aquatic centre at the heritage-listed Centenary Pool site at Spring Hill, with works scheduled to begin from September after the Games Independent Infrastructure and Co-ordination Authority (GIICA) takes possession of the site.
The venue will includes a main and secondary arena, new competition and training pools, a gym, high-performance facilities and office space while retaining and integrating the heritage-listed elements of the existing Centenary Pool.
The project team also includes aquatic design specialist Liquid Blu, whose previous projects include the Yeppoon Lagoon, Palm Beach Aquatic and Community Centre and Gympie Aquatic Recreation Centre.
Four contractors have been shortlisted to deliver the project, with bids due by the end of July. GIICA expects to reduce the field to two builders within weeks before selecting a preferred contractor in early 2027.
Premier David Crisafulli said the appointment demonstrated the government’s progress towards delivering Games infrastructure.
GIICA chairman Stephen Conry said the winning design had stood out for its integration with the existing site and response to Brisbane’s subtropical environment.
“Ultimately, it was ARM Architecture, NH Architecture and Arkhefield’s design for a centre inspired by the movement of water, cleverly positioned into the landscape, that we felt best reflected the natural beauty of Brisbane,” Conry said.
ARM Architecture has delivered Perth’s RAC Arena and the redevelopment of the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, while NH Architecture led the transformation of Melbourne Park. Arkhefield’s recent projects include South Bank’s River Quay precinct and the Waterfront Brisbane development.
The National Aquatic Centre will become Australia’s premier high-performance swimming hub after the Games, with permanent facilities designed to support elite athletes, community sport and major international events after Brisbane 2032.
