Vibrant spaces encourage innovation and experimentation
Design studios
The design studios on both the South Bank and Gold Coast campuses are designed as collaborative working environments.
Students develop projects through workshops and studios, as well as collaboration with private and industry partners.
We value the material practices of designers as principal modes of engagement and offer state of the art equipment and key tools that give students the opportunity to use the latest technologies like 3D printing, laser-cutting labs, microelectronics workshops and virtual reality, allowing students to take their concepts from design to prototype under one roof.
ADaPT 1.0
ADaPT brings together multi-disciplinary expertise across Griffith University in collaboration with leading industry partners to push the boundaries in advanced custom design, rapid prototyping and new materials.
With advanced design at its centre and collaboration at its core, ADaPT combines leading-edge expertise in micro and nanoscience, complex imaging, 3D digital scanning, 3D functional modelling, bioengineering, industrial design, big data analytics, artificial intelligence and specialist expertise in designing advanced manufacturing processes. ADaPT is equipped with extensive 3D printing technologies including multiple metal, polymer and bio printing capabilities.
Liveworm studios
Liveworm bridges the gap between design theory and creative professional practice, providing a unique opportunity for students to test and develop their abilities on real projects, for real people, in a real studio environment. Students collaborate with industry partners across two dedicated studio spaces on the South Bank and Gold Coast campuses, alongside remote students via Virtual Design Studio technologies and workflows.
Established in 1982, Liveworm is one of the longest-running design studios in Australia and a flagship experience for multiple generations of Queensland College of Art and Design Griffith University graduates. The program has launched thousands of creative careers with Liveworm project outcomes featuring in graduate design portfolios across the globe.
While participating in Liveworm, students collaborate on multiple creative projects, experiencing initial project briefings, concept creation, client presentations, and development to published design outcomes. The studio undertakes around two hundred projects per year for a broad cross-section of industry partners, focusing on collaborations with not-for-profit organisations, Griffith University researchers, the creative arts industries, and youth-focused initiatives.
The studio operates within a Problem-Based Learning philosophy where students build confidence while developing lifelong learning approaches to their future creative practice. Students are encouraged to think critically and re-frame real-world requirements while navigating budgets, deadlines, and other external conditions. A key feature of Liveworm is mentorship — students access practical one-on-one guidance from industry experienced staff to develop creative design strategies into tangible outcomes.
The Queensland College of Art and Design studios and Liveworm studio, also cater to the needs of our postgraduate and international students.
Design (Masters)
Design (International)
Featured equipment
Design studios
The studios offer advanced systems and equipment, including:
- Commercial grade 3D printers
- Fully immersive Virtual Reality lab
- Laser scanning
- Microelectronics.
Workshop
Students can work with materials like timber, plastics, foam and metals on a range of machines and hand tools to create objects, furniture, full scale building components, prototypes and scale models. Workshop equipment includes:
- Sanders
- Routers
- Circular saws
- Specialised joinery machines.
Computer labs and Liveworm
Computer labs offer the latest industry hardware and software. Liveworm South Bank and Liveworm Gold Coast are equipped with:
- Two dedicated studio spaces modelled on industry workspaces
- Apple Mac workstations with industry standard software
- Analogue maker supplies and spaces including markers, ink, paint, and cutting boards
- Public-facing meeting room for client briefings and presentations
- Student lounge and mini design library
- Student kitchen and break room.
Images
Students in the Queensland College of Art and Design design studios. Click to enlarge images.
Explore a selection of QCAD spaces in 360°
Visit some of the spaces that the Queensland College of Art and Design has to offer; explore design and print studios in 360° and experience QCAD from wherever you are, without stepping foot on campus.
Explore some of our design spaces in 360°
New to virtual reality? You can view our 360º panorama's using your phone, tablet, computer or VR headset. You can also use the YouTube app on your device. On your computer you can click to change your perspective and on your phone or tablet you can move your phone or use your finger. A VR headset will give you the best experience and let you feel like you are really on campus. Before you immerse yourself remember to take note of your surroundings, have a clear space around you and keep your feet on the ground!