University of Melbourne

At the University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus, the refurbishment of Block D marks a considered shift in how research environments are experienced. Within the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, a Brutalist structure once defined by its rigidity has been reimagined through warmth, materiality and light.

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Designed by Architectus and delivered in collaboration with Intrec, Eco Build and PRIMED, the project introduces a new layer of spatial quality, balancing technical performance with a more human-centred approach to design.

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The intent was clear from the outset. To create a timber-rich environment that could sit in contrast to the precision and intensity of laboratory spaces, offering moments of calm within a highly functional setting. While the original specification called for Blackbutt, supply challenges following the 2018 Australian wildfires required a shift in direction. The move to Mixed Australian Hardwoods not only resolved this constraint but aligned naturally with the project’s broader commitment to sustainability and authenticity of material.

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Across approximately 1,000 square metres, Apollo Timber Battens form the backbone of this transformation. Sized at 60 millimetres deep by 30 millimetres wide, and finished in Mixed Australian Hardwoods with a clear matte lacquer, the battens introduce a consistent rhythm that softens the existing structure. Their presence brings a natural tactility to the space, tempering the harder architectural elements while maintaining a level of refinement appropriate to the academic setting.

Beyond their visual contribution, the battens play an important role in shaping the acoustic environment. Within a building that now houses advanced laboratories for Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Mechatronics, clarity of sound is essential. The ceiling system supports this requirement, contributing to a more controlled and comfortable internal atmosphere without detracting from the overall design intent. The integration of timber extends beyond the ceiling. Working alongside PRIMED, bespoke free-standing screen elements were developed to maintain continuity across the space. These elements are carefully detailed and material-matched, ensuring a seamless transition between vertical and horizontal surfaces. The result is a cohesive architectural language that reinforces the sense of warmth and consistency throughout.

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On Level 4, the transformation is particularly evident. What was once a conventional office environment has been redefined as a series of state-of-the-art laboratories, equipped with advanced systems and technology. Full-height glazing introduces natural light and maintains visual connections between spaces, fostering a sense of openness and collaboration. Within this context, the timber elements provide balance, grounding the technical environment with a more considered, human scale.

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This project stands as a thoughtful example of adaptive reuse. Rather than erasing the past, it builds upon it, introducing new layers of performance and experience. Through careful material selection, precise detailing and a collaborative approach, the refurbishment of Block D delivers an environment that supports innovation while remaining grounded in warmth and clarity.