In a case of Art vs. Science, Buildcorp has successfully delivered the country’s largest collection floor for the Melbourne CBD Blood Donor Centre.
Buildcorp was engaged by the Australian Red Cross Blood Service to complete the fit out for their newest and largest blood donation centre at 367 Collins Street, in a 22 week program that began in September 2015.
Buildcorp took a creative approach to the highly regulated project. The pairing of medical grade works with modern design elements such as Barrisol ceiling features & Blackbutt KD timber battens in the reception area, required a detailed and well-thought out strategy. Other project challenges included highly technical components such as emergency mechanical and electrical supplies, strict hygiene controls and rigorous testing. The project team was able to meet these challenges successfully to complete the project on time by the 5th February 2016.
In addition to boasting the country’s largest collection floor, the 1300m2 program of works included:
- BMS mechanical system upgrades
- Critical Store Room dual mechanical system installation
- Reception & client refreshments area
- Interview rooms
- Staff amenities
- Kitchen and staff breakout area
- Boardroom and management offices
The highest levels of quality and attention to detail were required to ensure the medical retail works met the Blood Service and TGA standards in order to operate as a blood donation and storage facility, however, the space was also required to act as a comfortable working environment for employees. Upgraded kitchen and break out areas along with the provision of modern staff amenities allowed the Melbourne Blood Donor Centre to function effectively on both levels.
Working closely with all stakeholders throughout the project allowed Buildcorp to successfully achieve the standards required to gain industry compliance and various client side accreditations, without compromising on design or quality architectural finishes.
This is the second project Buildcorp has undertaken for the Australian Red Cross Blood Service, after previously delivering their $72million Sydney Blood Processing Facility in 2011. Spanning four levels and 13,577m2, the building was a significant investment in the processing of blood and blood products, distribution, blood testing and tissue typing, and contains research laboratories, warehousing, office and staff amenities for the NSW branch of the Blood Service.
