Hot Modernism

Hot Modernism is a fascinating SLQ exhibition that takes visitors on an in-depth journey of discovery of mid-century Queensland architecture and the stories behind it.

This was a time in history when a fresh take on our sub-tropical and California-influenced lifestyle gripped the imagination of architects and designers, resulting in a mini-revolution in building design.

Landmark Brisbane buildings and structures from the era include the iconic space age Torbreck, Brisbane’s first high rise apartment block, UQ Central Library, the Centenary Pool, Toowong Library, Wickham Tce car park, the Jacobi House and, love it or hate it - the Riverside Expressway.

Highlights of the exhibition include the full scale reproduction of a 1957 house that visitors can walk through and a 1960s lounge to relax and take a seat in and 3D architectural models, historical photos and original drawings of the defining era.

As well as rarely heard tales behind the architecture, those of the people who created, worked and lived in the buildings are also revealed, giving an intriguing insight into the time.

From this insight into the past, visitors have a chance to investigate future design challenges of transport, community, sustainability and accessibility and build our city of the future in a special interactive space Design Our City.

In addition to the exhibition there’s a brilliant programme of events, talks and tours:

Hot Modernism Gallery Tours

Drop by after hours to explore the exhibition led by guest architects:

July - Alice Hampson, architect, historian and writer specializing in mid-20th century architecture will share her insights into Qld post-war architecture, followed by a talk with Professor Tom Avermaete on modernisms from around the globe  and the crossover with those of Qld. Jul 10 6pm Free. Book here

August  – Sunshine coast architect John Railton who specializes in residential, multi-residential, medical, office, educational and retail projects.will be discussing his take on the icons of modernist Qld architecture, followed by An Evening in the Jacobi House. Aug 20 6pm Free. Book here

Hot Modernism Events

Man About the House

Design, music and comedy collide when comedian Tim Ross brings his ground-breaking show Man About the House to a home in Brisbane suburbia for one night. The unique setting for the show happens to be the mid-century modernist Eisenmenger House, which was designed by Barry Walduck and has been meticulously restored by owners Chris Osborne and Susan Bennett.  Music for the evening is by Kit Warhurst.                                                                                                                                   

Aug 16 6.30-8  9 Burchill St Carina  $58. Book here

An Evening in the Jacobi House                                                                                                                              

The history of iconic 1957 Jacobi House comes together under one roof in the mock-up of the 9m x 9m revolutionary building inside the SLQ, as builder Joan Jacobi (who has a lane named after him in Spring Hill) is joined by son Jason, previous house owner Malcolm Elliott and current owners Amanda Baxter and Ken Petersen. Attendees can be privy to the intimate stories behind and surrounding the house, which was designed by architects Hayes and Scott, is famous for its minimalist size and, with its elevation on stumps and surrounded by 3 verandahs, its modernist interpretation of the classic Queenslander.

Aug 20 6.30-7.30 Free. Book here