The architectural team behind Brisbane’s future National Aquatic Centre has been revealed, with ARM Architecture and NH Architecture partnering with Brisbane based Arkhefield to design one of the flagship venues for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Unveiled by the Queensland Government to mark six years until the Brisbane 2032 Games, the proposed redevelopment of the heritage listed Centenary Pool would transform the site into a national aquatic hub designed for elite competition, high performance training and year round community use.
The winning design features a flowing roof inspired by the movement of water and wind, while embracing Centenary Pool’s existing heritage listed structures. Rather than dominating the site, the building has been designed to sit within the natural landscape, with the multi level venue stepping down the site’s southern edge to maximise natural light, capture cooling breezes and preserve surrounding parkland.
Once completed, the National Aquatic Centre would include a main competition arena, a secondary arena, three new covered pools, high performance training facilities, a gymnasium, office space and athlete support facilities. The redevelopment would also retain Centenary Pool’s existing outdoor swimming facilities, creating a venue capable of hosting international competition while remaining accessible to the community beyond the Games.
The architectural consortium brings together firms with extensive experience delivering major public infrastructure projects across Australia. ARM Architecture previously designed Perth’s RAC Arena and led the redevelopment of the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, while NH Architecture delivered the transformation of Melbourne Park. Brisbane based Arkhefield has completed projects including South Bank’s River Quay precinct and the Waterfront Brisbane redevelopment.
Aquatic architecture specialist Liquid Blu also forms part of the design team, bringing experience from projects including the Yeppoon Lagoon, Palm Beach Aquatic and Community Centre and Gympie Aquatic Recreation Centre.
According to the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA), the winning concept was selected following a six month competitive design process. GIICA Chair Stephen Conry said the design was chosen for its strong connection to Brisbane’s landscape and its integration with the heritage significance of the existing Centenary Pool.
While design work progresses, procurement for the construction contract is also advancing. Four contractors have been shortlisted to submit bids to deliver the project, with the field expected to be reduced to two builders in the coming weeks before a preferred contractor is selected in early 2027.
GIICA is scheduled to take possession of the Centenary Pool site on 1 September 2026, allowing early works to commence ahead of major construction.
The Queensland Government said the design and construction procurement processes are being undertaken in parallel to maintain progress towards the Brisbane 2032 delivery program.
Beyond its role during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, the National Aquatic Centre is intended to become Australia’s premier venue for aquatic sports, supporting elite athlete development, national and international events, and year round public access. The project would establish a long term aquatic legacy while preserving one of Brisbane’s most significant historic swimming venues.
Loading ...
Based on the renders, the new sections will be taking up space just North-East of the existing Centenary Aquatic Centre, closer to Bowen Bridge road and the Ekka. So they really are expecting patrons to walk from Exhibition station. Here’s hoping someone’s thought ahead and are planning a (southern end) pedestrian underpass beneath Bowen Bridge road.
I thought it would have made sense to build in the opposite direction I.e .absorb the existing carpark space and tennis courts, which would reduce the number of trees needing to be culled for construction.
It’s a bit of a shame that they aren’t extending the York’s Hollow land bridge (over the CBD & train lines) as part of the design. That would have clawed back lost parkland space and also improved access from Exhibition station to the new stadium.
Absolutely stunning design, I love it