Western Edge Biosciences

Architect: Hassell, 2019

University of Melbourne Parkville Campus | UoMP06

Building Description

Building 125 delivers the highest quality formal and informal learning spaces for the University’s three faculties working within the life sciences. Incorporating world class facilities include large practical laboratories for the teaching of biosciences, biomedicine, veterinary science and microbiology as well as spaces for problem-based learning, teaching in small groups and a variety of student and collaborative work areas. The building is the University’s second 6 Star Green Star building and its first scientific building to achieve this rating. The building offers two distinct types of learning experiences. One structured and focused, the other informal and collaborative. From the interior fit-out to the façade, the function and aesthetics of space are finely tuned to enable different ways of thinking and learning. The façade radiates from the concentrically arranged System Garden, recalling the historical glasshouse tower once at the centre of the garden. An abstracted biological pattern derived from the artworks of PhD students, provides a perforated texture to strengthen the narrative of the building. The building is designed to work harmoniously with the System Garden. The new building’s internal design incorporates both a terrace garden and interior plantings, which speaks to the history of the site as a place that showcases plant diversity and promotes social interaction and learning.

What's On

Experience world class formal and informal spaces throughout the building including the animal anatomy laboratory. Explore the abstracted biological pattern on the façade derived from the artworks of PhD students, along with other biological artwork within the lifts enabling imagination and wonder on the journey from floor to floor.

Location