Hassell has been awarded the design of Melbourne Park’s new Administration and Media Building, which will be the new headquarters for Tennis Australia, the Melbourne and Olympic Parks Trust, and home to a new media centre for the Australian Open tennis.
The announcement comes after news of a three strong shortlist was revealed in May 2014, with Hassell beating Lyons Architects and a consortium of Woods Bagot, NH Architecture and Populous for the project. Built was awarded the design and construction contract from a shortlist of five contractors.
The eight-storey Administration and Media building will be situated between the current function centre and the Jolimont rail yards, creating a new northern face for the sporting precinct that will be seen by tens of thousands of rail commuters every day.
“The redevelopment of Melbourne Park will see significant improvements for those attending the many sporting and cultural events held in this precinct each year. The redevelopment will also provide long-term security for the Australian Open event,” said Hassell’s principal, Glenn Scott.
“Our concept creates connections with the many event and sporting venues at Melbourne Park, where many existing structures also comprise a solid base, focused views and large protective roofs.”
With a nominal gross area of 8,700sqm, the building is part of stage two of the $700 million redevelopment of Melbourne Park, which also includes refurbishments to Rod Laver Arena by Cox Architecture and a footbridge over Batman Avenue designed by John Wardle Architects and NADAAA in collaboration.
Work has commenced on site, with completion expected in 2016.
