Wurundjeri People (Woi Wurrung) of the Kulin Nation
Victoria
The Aikenhead Centre for Medical Discovery (ACMD) at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne is a transformative 11-level facility designed by Denton Corker Marshall and L2D Laboratory Architects. ACMD brings together research, teaching, and industry to accelerate biomedical breakthroughs, attracting leading talent from Australia and abroad. Its striking sculptural facade reflects surrounding landscapes while activating the streetscape. Internally a Corten clad sculptural stair links all floor in a dynamic way. Inside, PC2-certified laboratories, flexible research zones, and collaborative spaces support innovation and commercialisation. ACMD’s unique organisational structure unites eight major partners – including universities, research institutes, and hospitals – breaking down traditional barriers and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. This innovation hub positions Australia at the forefront of global health innovation, shaping the future of medical discovery.
The ACMD aims to be a globally recognised hub for medtech and healthtech innovation, driving breakthroughs through the integration of engineering and clinical medicine. Together with seven foundation partners, ACMD will pioneer treatments and devices in bionics, implantables, wearables, tissue engineering, and digital health. Its world-first collaborative design features open labs and workspaces with no private offices, fostering partnerships and R&D success. Key facilities include an auditorium with retractable seating, a Research Lounge, The Exchange exhibition space, and a digital booking system. A striking atrium, extensive glazing, and public areas with a café encourage openness, engagement, and serendipitous collaboration.
Wojciech Pluta, Project Director Architect
Barrie Marshall, Design Director Architect
Adrian FitzGerald, Design Architect
Paul Ahern, Project Architect
Colin Sakinofsky, Laboratory Architect
David Fletcher, Laboratory Architect
Arup, Acoustic Consultant
LCI Consultants, AV Consultant
McKenzie Group, Building Surveyor
Arup, Civil Consultant
MBM, Cost Consultant
LCI Consultants, Electrical Consultant
LCI Consultants, Engineer
Arup, Engineer
L2D, Lab Architect
Jensen Hughes, Accessibility
Chemmech Engineering, Dangerous Goods
LCI Consultants, ESD Consultant
Arup, Facade
Arup, Fire and Safety
Lovell Chen, Heritage Consultant
Landarche, Landscape Consultant
Contour Consultants, Planning
Buro North, Wayfinding and Signage
Arup, Structural Engineer
Stantec, Traffic
One Mile Grid Pty Ltd, Waste
MEL Consultants, Wind