PRAX Studios’ iconic vision for Mt Coot-Tha

PRAX Studio has presented an ambitious vision to transform the Mt Coot-Tha Quarry precinct into a vibrant public space that, if adopted, promises to become an iconic destination for Brisbane.

Masterplan PrecinctsVision document

The project aims to rejuvenate a battered landscape into a thriving centre for cultural, recreational and community activities. It reinforces Brisbane’s status as a leading global city and draws parallels between the UK’s famous Eden Project and Los Angeles’ Hollywood Music Bowl.

The name Mt Coot-Tha itself is derived from the Aboriginal word ‘ku-ta’, meaning honey, reflecting the area’s history of collecting honey from native stingless bees. PRAX Studio’s vision integrates this cultural heritage through honeycomb-like structures and water features that symbolise the central role of water and life in indigenous cultures.

This project emphasizes a seamless integration between the built environment and the natural landscape. Structures are inspired by the eucalyptus leaf, a tribute to Mt Coot-Tha’s history as a “one tree hill”, a place once cleared of its trees by European settlers. This approach not only honors the past, but also strives to create a harmonious and organic connection between the community and nature.

PRAX Studio’s proposal for Mt Coot-Tha Quarry is a comprehensive plan that encompasses several key areas, each offering unique attractions and facilities. The central theme of the proposal is to create an open, green and accessible space that can accommodate a variety of events and activities and attract visitors from all over the world.

Masterplan areas

The Mt Coot-Tha Quarry Masterplan is divided into several distinct areas, each designed to maximise the natural and cultural values of the site:
Arrival: The main entrance point, with vehicle access from Mt Coot-Tha Road, a public transport terminal and a carpool porte-cochere.
The Event Lawn: a five-hectare open space designed for large events such as music festivals, sporting events and open-air cinemas.
Operation and management: Centralized park management, with administrative services, a pedestrian connection to the Botanical Gardens and a covered loading and parking area.
Central area: the heart of the development, including the Music Bowl, The Hive, various water playgrounds and a range of food and beverage outlets.
Ridgeline Eco Hotel: An eco-boutique hotel on the ridge, offering spectacular views and sustainable accommodation options.

PRAX Studios’ submission is part of Brisbane City Council’s broader vision project to reimagine the Mt Coot-Tha Quarry, which aims to transform the quarry into a world-class destination.

The initiative, detailed in the 2023-24 budget, invites residents and industry stakeholders to help shape the future of the quarries. However, the council has remained silent on the project in recent times, and no further progress has been made, despite submissions.

The BRAX Studios project is inspired by successful international examples such as the Eden Project in the UK and Gardens by the Bay in Singapore. The project aims to create a space that enhances Brisbane’s tourism and leisure opportunities.

Architectural rendering of PRAX Studio's vision for Mt Coot-Tha Quarry

This is a unique opportunity to create a vibrant new public space for Brisbane that befits our status as a New World City. We envision a future where a deep scar is healed in one of Brisbane’s most sacred and beloved natural environments, while creating an iconic new place to visit that attracts people from all over the world, and helping Brisbane become a leading destination in the Asia Pacific region for major events and global tourism.

This is a vision for Mt Coot-Tha that is open, green, accessible and inspired by and deeply connected to the rich heritage of First Nations, whilst reflecting the contemporary and innovative spirit for which Brisbane and Australia are renowned worldwide.

Stephen Pratt – PRAX Studios

PRAX is a Brisbane based studio specialising in commercial, residential and multi-residential projects across the Eastern States.