Flinders University Health and Medical Research Building

Designed to connect 

This is Rainbow Country – the land holds the stories of time and memory. Through in-depth consultation with the Cultural Narrative and Indigenous Art Advisory Panel, including Dr. Uncle Lewis Yarlupurka O’Brien, Flinders University’s Senior Elder on campus, the design concept responded clearly and directly to the lore of Kaurna people.   

The visibility of First Nations stories reminds all users that the building adds a new chapter to the continuous history of the land.   

• Building is characterised by contour lines and tactile materials, inside and out  
• Each floor level is distinguished by a different colour palette internally, that corresponds with the multi-coloured sands of Rainbow Yarta (Country)  
• Façade blades guide views toward significant Kaurna sites while commissioned artworks celebrate knowledge and healing   

Powering Research  

The research spaces comprise PC2 wet and dry labs designed with the flexibility to support different workflows, group sizes and research streams.  

• PC2 labs and research areas  
• 640 researchers, clinicians, and staff working inside  
• 7,300+ sqm of office space including open plan zones, quiet rooms, and meeting rooms  
• Spaces can be easily re-configured to serve a range of research projects as science and technologies evolve  
• All areas are visually connected and integrated with the building, putting research on display for the passersby. 

Collaboration and community   

Weaving social spaces throughout this high-performance building encourages community, collaboration and transparency.   

• Central interconnecting staircase plays a significant role in the careful balance between technical and social spaces. Wellbeing messages have been inscribed on the staircase handrails at both ends of the building, providing facts about wellness and physical exertion as well as encouraging social interactions and collaboration amongst building occupants  
• Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the interior with natural light while adjoining seating offers respite and landscape views  
• Extensive planting and green terraces enliven the interior  
• Atria and ‘winter gardens’ provide a biophilic experience for researchers and visitors  
• Amenities include staff kitchen and breakout spaces, parents’ room, multi-faith and Wudu (foot wash) rooms, bike storage and end-of-trip facilities.  

Sustainability   

The HMRB embeds sustainable design harnessing 100% renewable electricity (solar and wind) and passive ventilation and daylight controls. The facility is on target to achieve Gold WELL and LEED certification for sustainability and wellbeing.