Access consulting from schematic design stage through to construction completion.
Written by: Vibhika Valimbe, Access Consultant at Architecture & Access
Architecture & Access was engaged by Woods Bagot to provide access consulting services for the La Trobe University Clinical Teaching Building project at the University’s Bundoora campus.
The project comprised the construction of a new five-storey Clinical Teaching Building, alongside the refurbishment of parts of the existing HS3 building to create additional teaching and learning spaces. Architecture & Access was involved from the schematic design stage through to construction completion of the new building and the inspection of the refurbished HS3 spaces.
The Clinical Teaching Building reached practical completion in June 2026, while refurbishment works within the HS3 building are currently being finalised.
Designed to support both students and teaching staff, the new facility provides a diverse range of specialised learning environments across its five levels. These include:
- audiology clinics
- consultation rooms
- orthoptics facilities
- occupational therapy teaching spaces
- podiatry clinics
- physiotherapy areas, and,
- other purpose-built teaching, staff, and student amenity spaces.
The building reflects the University’s commitment to delivering contemporary healthcare education in a practical and inclusive environment.
A key focus of the project was the integration of inclusion and universal design principles beyond the minimum accessibility requirements prescribed by legislation.
Universal Design considerations were embedded throughout the design process, ensuring that the building is welcoming and usable for a broad range of users.
As part of the project delivery, Architecture & Access was also engaged to undertake a Green Star assessment for the new building under the Inclusion category. This assessment recognised and evaluated the project’s commitment to creating an equitable and accessible environment for all building occupants.
The Woods Bagot project team demonstrated a strong commitment to accessibility and inclusion from the outset. These principles were carefully considered across all aspects of the design, from spatial planning and circulation strategies through to the detailed design of joinery and user interfaces.
While the refurbishment of the existing HS3 building presented some challenges associated with adapting an existing structure, these were successfully addressed through thoughtful design solutions that maximised accessibility outcomes wherever possible.
The completed Clinical Teaching Building stands as an example of how accessibility, inclusion, and universal design can be seamlessly integrated into higher education environments to enhance the experience of all users.
Image 1. (feature) Description: Internal stairway providing access between building levels, featuring contrasting nosings, handrails to both sides, and compliant balustrades to enhance safety and wayfinding.
Image 2. Description: Accessible external circulation is supported through landscaped pathways offering multiple route options, integrated seating opportunities, and a clearly identifiable entrance distinguished by contrasting materials promoting accessibility, user choice and intuitive wayfinding.
Image photographer credit: Dianna Snape
