The Department of Child Safety's new building is the result of a public-private partnership with the aim of providing an attractive, functional and inviting office environment. The specific needs of the end user - the Department of Child Safety were defined in the technical brief document issued by Department of Public Works at the project outset. The objectives of brief called for high functional flexibility with minimal travel distances, a low dependence on artificial light and the high level of security that is associated with day to day operations of the department. The green field site is a corner block in a recently developed business area of Thuringowa Central surrounded with vacant blocks on two sides. The design concept was to create a simple, compelling dialog between building and its locality reinforcing the street alignment with a minimum number of 'building parts'. The parts, set in a dynamic and engaging way were then further refined to their optimum functional and climatic performance. The building form is a direct response to the three main functional areas. The Entry Area with the associated conference room - clearly defined, generous with easy access to the general public is represented by the hovering roof canopy. The adjacent areas of the Interview Rooms are expressed by 'a nested external red box'. The third and main element of Office Area is represented by the elongated portal frame that opens its interior volume to the street. The high level volume

provides a clear and easily identifiable building entry point and set down area. The change of ceiling height and expression of external openings is set to reinforce the functional layout keeping the visitors and staff orientated at all times. The high security brief requirements are integrated into the design as part of the whole picture rather than being add-on elements. The building has achieved excellent levels of natural lighting by maximizing daylight access to the three available sides while the west elevation is a well insulated separation wall to the second stage of the site development. High level windows and large glass areas to the street are given full solar protection by deep overhangs. Energy efficient services and fixtures are used throughout. The zoning of a/c and lighting services are provided throughout the building. Water usage is minimized while a rainwater retention system has been integrated into the central landscaped 'rock garden area'. The staff kitchen extends onto the external deck dining area. Showers and bicycle racks are provided to promote a healthy working environment. The project was completed in only twelve months (start to finish) during the booming market time of late 2007 / early 2008. This background influenced the choice of a cost-plus contract and required close collaboration between architect and builder. Each trade was reviewed individually and fine tuned to achieve the optimum financial outcome against the initial budget estimate.