This $90 million project impressed the judges who were looking for outstanding design with green credentials. Originally a Morris Minor assembly factory, the West Melbourne site comprises 17,500sqm of space across four levels, and is split into two buildings. Extending to the edges of its city block, the buildings are divided by an internal and elegantly enclosed laneway.
“DesignInc has opened up the inner area of the atrium and it has tried to open up what was previously a closed function,” said jury member Natasha Palich. This bodes well with the body-related function of the organisation, while the internal gardens allow the building to breathe. Timber benches are provided for staff too, with the enhanced indoor air quality creating a healthier working environment.
Other green elements include a 50,000L rainwater harvesting tank, solar hot water, water efficient fittings and GECA furniture selections. Palich believes “they have given this building a new lease of life for another fifty to one hundred years”.
Australian Red Cross Blood Service Melbourne Processing Centre, DesignInc
