Beaudesert Courthouse Replacement

The new Beaudesert Courthouse is a single-storey community facility, co-located with the Police Station, to enhance judicial capacity and security in the region.

As Queensland’s first new courthouse since 2012, it is an exemplar for future projects, providing a landmark and bespoke facility for the local community. Although designed to complement the adjoining police building in form and materiality, the courthouse adopts a more prominent public presence within the precinct.

Balancing civic gravitas with approachability, the design is defined by a raised, sheltered entry with a gently ramped approach and a colonnade of evenly spaced columns, referencing stripped classical civic architecture. Generous glazing to public waiting areas enhances transparency, while custom perforated metal screens animate the façade, incorporating artwork aligned with Magistrates Court of Queensland Reconciliation Action Plan design.

Internally, a refined palette of blackbutt timber and stone creates calm, enduring spaces. Clerestory glazing introduces natural light into courtrooms and waiting areas, offering framed views to the sky for staff, judiciary, and visitors. Curved ceiling elements and bespoke joinery soften the interiors, while filtered light through the external screens brings shifting patterns into public spaces throughout the day.

The building is organised around two courtrooms (the second for future fitout), supported by generous waiting areas, interview rooms, meeting spaces, and internal amenities. The planning responds to evolving judicial needs, prioritising safety, accessibility, and dignity – particularly for vulnerable users and domestic violence proceedings. Clear wayfinding, acoustic performance, integrated audiovisual systems and secure, separated circulation paths underpin the building’s functionality.

A holistic approach to sustainability and resilience is embedded throughout. Initiatives include photovoltaic panels, rainwater harvesting, energy and water efficient systems, low VOC and low embodied energy materials, enhanced thermal performance, and locally responsive landscaping, including edible species. Together, these elements reflect a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and community connection.