A nationally significant medical research institute and an icon for Tasmania.
The University of Tasmania made a significant investment in the Medical Science Precinct, in order to continue the work of the Menzies Research Institute which has a well-deserved reputation for tackling some of the most pressing health issues.
This leading edge, biomedical research and teaching facility is helping to deliver high quality undergraduate and postgraduate research education in Tasmania.
The $105 million project included two phases (Medical Science 1 and Medical Science 2) and two buildings. The first phase was the construction of the unique five-storey 9,000sqm Medical Science 1 building and refurbishment of a student accommodation building. Medical Science 2 building comprises six levels across 11,500sqm and accommodates medical and clinical research facilities for the Menzies Research Institute, UTAS School of Medicine and Royal Hobart Hospital.
The precinct provides Faculty of Health Science teaching facilities for over 1,000 undergraduate students, two lecture theatres, office and QC2/PC2 laboratory floor for 450 staff and postgraduate students, a café servicing up to 150 patrons inside and outside on the landscaped podium, and support facilities for undergraduate students.
- Customer
University of Sydney - Location
Sydney, New South Wales - Specialisation
Education & research - Start
April 2013 - End
July 2015
The striking facades of both buildings draw upon themes such as Hobart's mountains and waterways and elements of bio-medical research, such as cell structures.
This project obtained a Green Building Council of Australia 5 Star Green Star Rating for using innovative technologies such as thermal insulation break in precast panels, high performance glazing systems, extensive contoured sun shading, rainwater storage for use in toilets and landscape irrigation, outgoing water treatment, enhanced daylight and amenity to internal office environments, and sustainable materials selection.
The QC2/PC2 laboratories were designed and delivered in close conjunction with our key stakeholders to ensure they were prepared appropriately for certification. Working closely with our stakeholders was paramount to the success of the project. After discovering 15,000 significant historical artefacts, we collaborated with our stakeholders and redesigned the foundations to manage the site’s heritage value. This also addressed the highly variable ground conditions and alterations to the ground floor to minimise the impacts of the new structure on the heritage site. This was achieved within budget and without program delay.
The Medical Science Stage 2 building won the Commercial Building $50 - $100 million category at the Master Builders Association Awards for Excellence in Building and Construction and the People’s Choice Award at the 2019 Tasmanian Architecture Awards.
