PCPM Offices at RMIT University

2014

Melbourne, VIC ∙ Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country

We undertook this project for RMIT’s School of Planning, Construction and Project Management. It involved demolition in a portion of Building 8 Level 8, and design of new offices for the School’s academic and administrative staff.

The existing floor plan was inefficient and confusing, characterised by spidery corridors and dead ends. Its irregular envelope was tricky to apportion, especially with appropriate accessibility and contemporary workplace ambitions in mind. Our new plan aimed to provide fluid circulation, generous rooms and breakout space, including a flexible seating module and a kitchen.

The original design also drew little daylight into the area, so we attempted to maximise the illusion of light by increasing volume in communal zones. We recessed deep cylindrical fixtures in the ceiling, to imitate skylights.

Ultimately, all existing partitions, floor coverings and ceiling systems were replaced, as were the mechanical, electrical and fire systems. Our refurbishment also provided high levels of security for staff and students, while rendering these measures inconspicuous. This fusion of function and unobtrusiveness is key to our integration of security and other utility provisions in civic projects.