The University of Melbourne’s Dookie Campus is an agricultural facility set on the tranquil rolling hills between Shepparton and Benalla. The 2,440-hectare campus is home to the Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences and holds enormous potential to create a centre of excellence for Agricultural teaching, research and innovation.

The new accommodation facilities provide a comfortable and welcoming residential environment that encourages connection and social wellbeing. Inspired by the campus’ agricultural roots, the design pays homage to the rural vernacular with its clean, vertical lines expressed throughout the external façade. Inside, earthy tones ground the building within its rural landscape and provide a warm and welcoming space. An expansive communal kitchen and living area creates a social heart, with large windows framing views of the surrounding campus and central courtyard.

The layout fosters connection and privacy, offering a modern living experience in a rural setting. Each of the 85 units open directly onto a shared courtyard to create a sense of community, and visual connection to nature. Existing trees were thoughtfully preserved, forming a focal point in the courtyard.

Working closely with head contractor Modscape, the design utilised prefabricated, modular construction to meet a fast-tracked program. The project was a joint investment by the State Government and the University of Melbourne.

• Country

  Yorta Yorta

• Address

  Goulburn Valley, Victoria

• Year

  2024

• Status

  Completed

• Client

  The University of Melbourne

• Builder

  Modscape

• Photography

  Gavin Green

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