Benefits The adaptive reuse and conservation of the building together with the new layer of contemporary architecture and landscape enhances the interpretation and understanding of this historic site. Landscape architecture was integral to the outcome, establishing a new forecourt from Science Road and transforming the internal courtyard from a degraded service area into a landscaped space for recreation and breakout. The new forecourt framework addresses accessibility, security and topographic issues. It evokes a sense of arrival and enhances interpretation of the heritage facades. Context The project reinforced the importance of the adaptive re-use of heritage items and the opportunities and constraints presented by them. The main challenge was the successful integration of contemporary usage within its heritage context. This was developed through studies of historical features and uses with an understanding of the client's initial and long-term requirements and aspirations. Materials and finishes were carefully selected with an emphasis on expressing the existing fabric within workshop context. The robust nature of these materials is evident in the selection of polished concrete with carpet infill to workplace and meeting-areas, repair and partial replacement of the exposed corrugated sheet ceiling, the uncovering of the previously concealed steel-structure and timber-framing to the ceiling. The new pods were detailed with frameless glazed entries and canopies, reinforcing the workshop aesthetic. A limited budget informed the selection of finishes with emphasis given to key joinery items. American veneers and furniture by US designers enhance the identity of the USSC within its Australian context. Program The functional compliance, cost and programme objectives were undertaken in a close collaboration with key representatives.

Integration of Allied Disciplines The contribution of consultants was integral to the project's success. This included the successful conservation, re-use and restoration of the building, the integration of services with minimum intrusion, the re-establishment of the spatial interior volumes, and the landscape response developed for the site. Cost/Value The University held high aspirations for the project as a new benchmark for adaptive reuse of heritage buildings. The expectations of quality together with budget constraints were met through considered simplicity, durability and robustness of selected materials and details in conjunction with specification of proprietary items. Sustainability The design was developed with reference to the GBCA GreenStar office tool. The main environmental feature was the custom designed Multi-Service Beam, combining chilled beam technology with power/data reticulation, lighting, EWIS and emergency lighting all within one integrated element. This approach was adopted to limit services penetrations to the heritage ceiling and security requirements advising against an 'open-window' ventilationsystem. Further environmental considerations included: Automated BMS monitoring internal and external conditions; detailed data-logging and trend archiving providing comprehensive information to ongoing energy analysis and seasonal adjustment; room controllers in cellular offices enabling individual adjustment; efficient linear fluorescent luminaries to minimise energy consumption and maintenance expenses; automated lighting controlsystem connected to photoelectric-cells and providing lighting in accordance with the amount of available daylight; motion sensors/ time control to limit operating time of lighting system; timed flow taps; AAA-rated fixtures; and use of recycled materials and components.