[1] RR Smellie & Co was established in the 1860s as a foundry and engineering works in Alice Street, producing cast iron products for the building industry, and equipment for steamships and locomotives.

In the 1880s, RR Smellie & Co altered the orientation of its business, concentrating on importing machinery, implements, and general hardware supplies.

In 1888 a new warehouse, designed by Richard Gailey, was built for the company on the corner of Edward and Alice Streets in 1888.

The school had previously been at the Central Technical College (now the Gardens Point campus of Queensland University of Technology) but the conditions there were very cramped.

The main entry is in the central bay of the Edward Street facade and has a semi-circular arched opening with flanking pilasters supporting an austere projecting entablature and cornice.

Classical pediments free of ornament are situated at the parapet level of the central bay of each street facade.

As an example of an intact late Victorian era warehouse with classical detailing[1] For the disciplined manner in which it articulates the corner and terminates both the Alice and Edward Street streetscapes[1] For its association with the firm of Smellie & Co, a prominent Queensland importing, engineering and iron founding firm of the nineteenth century[1] The place is important in demonstrating the principal characteristics of a particular class of cultural places.

As an example of an intact late Victorian era warehouse with classical detailing[1] The place is important because of its aesthetic significance.

For the disciplined manner in which it articulates the corner and terminates both the Alice and Edward Street streetscapes[1] The place has a special association with the life or work of a particular person, group or organisation of importance in Queensland's history.