Matthew Flinders Home (MFH) needed to modify their existing accommodation, provide additional accommodation and were seeking to update their entry and street presentation. The existing accommodation consisted of shared rooms without ensuites, which did not meet current MFH standards and were difficult to operate.

The facility had a large single storey footprint and previous expansions had progressively occupied the entire site. The additional accommodation requirements led us to explore the expansion to two storeys. As a result, the MFH Board were interested to use the additional scale to increase their street presence and modify the ground floor shared accommodation to suit the architectural expression of the existing facility.

Grieve Gillett Architects continued our established association with local architectural practice Lowe + Redding Design. They assisted in the concept design and 3D modelling for the initial presentation to the MFH Board and development approval. GGA analysed the existing planning footprint to minimise works and to optimise the structural support for the second storey addition. Crucifix second-storey planning simplified the vertical circulation and service rises, while capturing elevated views over Boston Bay in the common areas. New plant was concealed within adjacent existing roof space.

To create a sense of home, we approached the interiors as a residential project, with the resulting in a non-institutional materials palette featuring ample timber and upholstery. Residents can now enjoy an enhanced day-to-day experience, including private rooms with ensuites, refreshed common areas and ocean views.

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