Wacol Youth Remand Centre, QLD

Commissioned by the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and operated by the Department of Youth Justice and Victim Support, the project aims to reduce reliance on police watch-houses for youth detention by offering a purpose-built environment focused on safety, rehabilitation, and wellbeing.

Client: Hutchinson Builders
Location: Wacol, QLD
MODE Expertise: Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Graphic Design
Project Leads: Christopher Rodgers, Troy Matheson, Trevor Barker, Steve Langton
Completion Date: April 2025

 

Wacol Youth Remand Centre, QLD

A Fast-tracked design and documentation program supporting accelerated delivery.

The Wacol Youth Remand Centre provides a new 76-bed facility designed to meet the increasing demand for youth remand accommodation in Southeast Queensland. Commissioned by the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and operated by the Department of Youth Justice and Victim Support, the project aims to reduce reliance on police watch-houses for youth detention by offering a purpose-built environment focused on safety, rehabilitation, and wellbeing.

Developed under a fast-tracked procurement model, the design and delivery strategy focused on efficiency, safety, and functionality. Prefabricated modular cell units were implemented to streamline construction, improve quality, and meet the accelerated project program. The facility also integrates therapeutic, educational, and outdoor exercise spaces to encourage positive behavioural and social outcomes.

MODE was engaged to review and refine the schematic design, update documentation to align with client and stakeholder requirements, and ensure compliance with the project brief. Our role extended through design development, detailed design documentation, and construction services, including review of RFIs, shop drawings, and quality monitoring during commissioning.

Through a multidisciplinary approach combining architecture, landscape architecture, and wayfinding, MODE created a cohesive and human-centred environment that balances operational security with spaces that support wellbeing and connection.

 

Key Initiatives

  • Fast-tracked design and documentation program supporting accelerated delivery.

  • MODE worked directly with subcontractors to establish a D&C workflow, enabling fast-tracked design, documentation, and delivery.

  • Virtual project model coordination (BIM) used for clash detection, preventing on-site issues and delays.

  • Use of prefabricated modular construction to enhance efficiency and precision.

  • Integrated landscape design that promotes safety, visibility, and outdoor engagement.

  • Wayfinding strategy developed to improve orientation, legibility, and accessibility.

  • Ongoing collaboration with subcontractors, consultants, and client representatives.

 

The Wacol Youth Remand Centre demonstrates MODE’s ability to deliver complex, multidisciplinary projects under challenging timelines. Guided by our CONNECTED BY DESIGN philosophy, the project integrates architecture, landscape, and wayfinding to create an environment that is not only secure and functional but also supports dignity, learning, and rehabilitation, strengthening community outcomes.

Get in touch with our sector leads to learn more about our expertise in Law & Order design: Christopher Rodgers

Law & Order, Landscape Architecture, Graphic Design, ArchitectureGuest UserArchitecture, Law & Order, Wayfinding, Graphic Design, Landscape Architecture, Queensland