Located in the City of Greater Geelong, the precinct demonstrates a progressive and sustainable approach to architectural design. This designated UNESCO City of Design project comprises a purpose-built Council Hub with mass timber construction and a Civic Space incorporating state-of-the-art environmental features. The precinct masterplan creates an inviting campus by strategically arranging buildings of various scales, optimising natural light, views and pedestrian routes while respecting surrounding heritage and modern structures.

The Council Hub was designed to bring departments together in a collaborative workplace and provide A-Grade office space for over 850 workers. Sustainability has been prioritised, targeting a 6-star Green Star rating and excellent NABHERS ratings. Meanwhile, Aboriginal culture is integrated through artworks, colour schemes selected by Traditional Owners and inclusion of cultural heritage in the landscape.

The project stands out for its integration of local Indigenous culture, sustainable design principles and creation of vibrant public spaces. It offers diverse open areas, through-site links and community amenities. The use of mass timber, along with energy-efficient systems, enhances its sustainability credentials.

Extensive consultation with the community and cultural groups ensured sensitivity to the site, place, environment and local culture, resulting in a design that reflects community needs and aspirations.

Furniture: Zenith, Burgtec, Krost, Dowel Jones, Relm, Aspect, Intraspace, Lockin, James Harrison. Lighting: Impulse Lighting, Zumtobel, Legrand, LPA Lighting. Finishes: Austral Bricks, Hess Timber Limitless, Atkar, NuWall Australia, James Hardie, SYP Glass, Optima Partition Systems, Kingspan, Knauf, Bradford, LouvreClad, Birrus, Regupol, Armstrong, Comcork, Verosol, Hazel Wood, Hammersmith, Sculptform, Dulux, Godfrey Hirst, Polytec, Laminex, Formica, PolyVision, Abet, Maxiply, Elton Group, Veridian, Corian, Caesar Stone, Academy Tiles, Stanmore Ceramics, Instyle, Hufcor. Fittings & Fixtures: Hafele, Caroma, Methven, Zip, Harvey Norman, JD Macdonald, Franke, Streamline, Grohe, Brasshards, Ampac, Dyson, Five At Heart, Australian Bollards, Gunnebo.

Photography: Peter Clarke