University of Melbourne
Block D
Adaptive Reuse
Block D
Adaptive Reuse
University of Melbourne
Block D
Adaptive Reuse
Client:
University of Melbourne
Location:
Parkville, VIC
Status
Completed 2024
Floor Area
1,550 sqm
Contact Person:
Ruth Wilson
The University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology (FEIT) is growing and breaking new ground through important research and education.
The Brutalist-style Block D building on the University’s Parkville campus is playing a key role in the faculty’s evolution. Architectus has brought new life to this older building, allowing the faculty to thrive while awaiting more extensive planned redevelopment.
With construction of new laboratory buildings delayed, Architectus transformed Level 4 of Block D from tired office space into laboratories to meet FEIT’s immediate needs for wet lab research spaces.
At the same time, we refurbished Level 2 to host laboratory experiments for coursework along with capstone projects in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE) and Mechatronics, part of Mechanical Engineering.
State-of-the-art laboratories
The Level 4 fit-out incorporates advanced experimental EEE research labs and fabrication facilities for identifying and manipulating material properties. The labs include glove box systems, deposition systems and spectroscopy instruments. A Characterisation Laboratory also supports Class 2B laser devices.
A large Physical Containment Level 2 research lab for Chemical and Biomedical Engineering caters for the study of biomaterials as well as bacterial, mammalian, human cell, and tissue work.
The open floorplate provides an ideal setup for wet lab functions, with two new lab spaces split along the east/west orientation. Full-height glazed walls separate the two spaces while maintaining a visual connection and bringing in ample natural light.
Digital learning spaces
Level 2 houses specialist dry labs – known as ‘E-labs’ – which give students space to learn and conduct research with a range of digital technologies.
The level includes areas for project work and informal study zones, as well as a flat-floor teaching and learning space.
A case study in adaptive reuse
The refurbishment of Block D is a prime example of successful adaptive re-use, demonstrating how innovative design thinking can bring new life to older, underutilised buildings.
These new facilities provide FEIT with the space and resources it needs to continue to be a leader in engineering and information technology.
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Client:
University of Melbourne
Location:
Parkville, VIC
Status
Completed 2024
Floor Area
1,550 sqm
Contact Person:
Ruth Wilson
