Project overview

TuneFM was a unique project. James Cubitt Architects (JCA) were appointed by UNE to undertake the design of the new studios for TuneFM, the University’s own on campus radio station and one of the longest running independent broadcasters in the country. The location of TuneFM was to be consumed by the expansion of UNE’s bookshop, requiring the station to be relocated elsewhere on Campus. The University sought to give TuneFM more prominence and a space was found that overlooked UNE’s main Northern Entry.

JCA, having designed the Northern Entry Precinct, developed a solution that would vibrantly transform TuneFM and provide greater transparency and connection with its key listeners – the students. The studios used colour as a way of significantly reinventing the way in which TuneFM had previously marketed and operated itself. JCA were required to work within the limitations of both a tight budget in addition to the reuse of much of the equipment. Through clever interpretation of the brief requirements and a client with the vision to match, the new TuneFM has since become a recognisable and prominent feature of Campus life and community.