The design for the proposed redevelopment of the veterinary teaching and hospital facilities at the University of Melbourne’s Werribee campus has been released.

Designed by Billard Leece Partnership (BLP), the 8,500sqm redevelopment will consist of a five-storey learning and teaching building as well as a two-storey extension to the existing U-Vet veterinary hospital, both of which are used by the Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences. U-Vet currently treats more than 23,000 animals a year.

Environmental objectives include a minimum Green Star rating of five stars. Energy savings are expected to be achieved with sun blades covering a fritted glass façade to reduce the need for internal air conditioning and heating.

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Key highlights of BLP’s design for the veterinary teaching and hospital buildings include a cascading staircase with a series of stepped lounges providing students with varied study spaces from intimate lounge styles to desk areas; a central lawn connecting the two buildings to act as the main social hub of the area as well as provide the public access to the hospital; and the hospital extension featuring improved workflows to provide 24-hour support.

Referring to BLP’s experience in health and institutional design, director Ron Billard commented that schemes such as the Werribee Campus Redevelopment project require a team that is experienced in designing and delivering technically demanding environments.

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BLP’s hospital projects portfolio includes the Albury Wodonga Cancer Centre, the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne with Bates Smart, the Perth Children’s Hospital with Cox Architecture, JCY Architects and HKAS, and a new building at St Vincent’s Private Hospital in Fitzroy, Melbourne.

BLP is additionally developing a masterplan for the entire Werribee campus.

The Werribee campus veterinary teaching and hospital buildings are expected to be completed in 2018.

Images: BLP