Architecture & Access ensures inclusive, navigable spaces in Australia’s newest integrated cancer care facility.
Written by: Stephanie Loria, Access Consultant. Feature image credit: John Gollings
As you travel along St Kilda Road, it is hard to miss the striking façade of the new Paula Fox Melanoma and Cancer Centre (PFMCC). Stretching five stories tall, the external glazing resembles skin cells – the core of what this centre was designed for.
Located next to the Alfred Hospital, the PFMCC officially opened its doors on April 19, 2024, marking a significant milestone in Australia’s fight against melanoma and other cancers. This world-class facility brings together research, clinical care, and prevention under one roof, with a mission to transform how cancer is treated and understood.
Named in honour of philanthropist Paula Fox, whose generous contributions and advocacy were instrumental in bringing the centre to life, the PFMCC is the result of a collaborative vision between the Alfred Hospital, the Alfred Research Alliance, and key partners including the Victorian Government and the Melanoma Institute Australia.
Inside the building, the space is purpose-built to facilitate collaboration between leading clinicians, researchers, and support staff. The centre houses state-of-the-art laboratories, consulting suites, treatment rooms, and education spaces, all designed to enhance patient outcomes and accelerate research breakthroughs.
Patients at the PFMCC benefit from access to the latest treatments and clinical trials, many of which are informed by on-site research. The centre also places strong emphasis on prevention and early detection, offering public education programs and skin check services designed to catch melanoma in its earliest stages, when it is most treatable.
Architecture & Access were engaged during the early design stage by the Lyons team in 2020 to provide access consulting services for the new hospital and continued through to its delivery. Kane constructions were appointed as the builder to deliver the $152 million project. As the access consultants on this project, Architecture & Access played a vital role in ensuring that every feature of the PFMCC is inclusive, navigable, and responsive to the needs of patients, staff, and visitors.
As Melbourne continues to grow as a hub for biomedical research and innovation, the Paula Fox Melanoma and Cancer Centre sets a new benchmark for integrated cancer care.
With its doors now open, the future of cancer treatment in Australia looks brighter than ever.
Image credit: Peter Bennetts
Accessibility features of images:
- Feature image – The external landscape features well-defined pathways, clearly marked entry points, ample seating throughout, including options with supportive backrests to enhance comfort and accessibility.
- Image 2. The design incorporates wide circulation paths, a soft colour palette, and contrasting elements to support visual clarity and ease of navigation.
Throughout the lifecycle of a project, Architecture & Access provides dynamic specialist advice to ensure new developments, like the Paula Fox – Melanoma and Cancer Centre comply with legislation requirements and incorporate the goals of universal design.
