Designed by DS Architects and completed in 2018, the Science Precinct project demonstrates a modern solution to meet the expanding needs of university life, without building outwards, upwards, or knocking down and starting again.
DS Architects’ brief was to create new ‘mega’ laboratories to support Deakin University’s growing science enrolments.
However, the existing, three-storey public works building it had considered for the conversion was unsuitable to accommodate the innovation required to deliver the curriculum.
DS Architects’ solution was to look beyond the existing building to envision an opportunity to enclose the open courtyard next door and replace it with a large, internal atrium connected to three adjoining buildings.
The design shifted the existing building’s circulation element across to the atrium.
In its place, the old interior was gutted to create seven high-capacity teaching laboratories.
The atrium is invisible from the outside.
But this makes entering the space even more impressive.
In stark contrast to the solidly-built but unremarkable buildings on either side, it is generous, light-filled, and welcoming with a soaring glass roof that faces the sky.
Creating volume and drama, the roof was pitched with a contemporary design featuring timber fins.
Below it, the atrium includes informal student spaces, student amenities, and circulation to the new laboratories.
But it can also be used by anyone for informal learning, socialising, and functions.
The existing building is now a highly functional facility that can comfortably hold large groups of up to 80 students.
The laboratories feature state-of-the-art audio-visual installations to deliver the curriculum and encourage collaboration with good sightlines for all students despite the large laboratory sizes.
During construction in 2015, both developments required close design collaboration with external organisations, including the Melbourne Fire Brigade and Melbourne Water.
Substantial fire engineering was also required to create the enclosed atrium from an external courtyard.
The new facility building came with structural impediments, including columns running down the middle of the building, restricted building and subsequent ceiling heights, and limited floor space for heating and cooling systems.
The services plant rooms needed to remain and be accessible, which meant the laboratories had to be planned around these zones.
Other issues included asbestos and hazardous material removal.
Today, the atrium is one of the few focal points of the campus.
Importantly, it highlights how critical thinking has transformed the existing space of an underutilized courtyard into something exciting, unexpected, and inspiring.
Project Details
Completion Date – 2018
Building Levels – 3
Project Team
Architecture
DS Architects
DS Architects are an established architectural practice that can trace its roots back to Blomquist + Wark Architects founded in 1976.
The firm works with an expansive range of clients including universities, schools, institutions, developers, private companies, and co-ops that understand the value of design and innovation, and the value of a design team aligned with their vision.
Photography
Michelle Williams
Michelle is an award-winning Melbourne-based freelance photographer specialising in architecture, interior, and lifestyle imagery.
Photo Gallery
Click on a thumbnail image to enlarge.
Design © 2022 DS Architects. All Rights Reserved.| Images © 2022 Michelle Williams. All Rights Reserved.
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