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Old Arts Building, Melbourne UniversityArchitect: Bates Smart
Overview: "Unexpected" takes on a whole new meaning when refurbishing historic buildings. Melbourne University's Old Arts Building is a significant piece of history, originally constructed early in the twentieth century. Harris HMC Interiors was engaged to undertake the $5M refurbishment, designed by Bates Smart Architects to retain original features while incorporating functional new spaces: four lecture theatres, three teaching spaces, a reception area and toilet facilities. Installing modern mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, audio visual, security and fire packages required a full strip back of the building interior with mindful demolition work preserving as many architectural fittings and panels as possible for reuse in the rebuild phase. The downside of spaghetti-like wiring bundles and possum poo in the roof was balanced by treasures like original parquetry and tessellated tile flooring unexpectedly uncovered under old carpeting. Harris HMC worked closely with the project's Heritage Consultant to optimise the retention and restoration of these and other period features by strategically incorporating them into the busy works program. With a semester-critical timeframe and access restricted by the building's very central location on the campus, logistical challenge was high. At its height, 95 personnel were on site each day, all coordinated to ensure the desired fusion of old and new was accomplished within the operationally strategic deadline. |
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