Understanding the Project

TIMELINE
'95

Initiation

In 1995 Equiset entered discussions with the Vice Chancellor on opportunities for the university to expand to the area south of Grattan Street in Carlton.

In 1997 Equiset was appointed as the conceptual facilitator of the project.

Equiset then compiled a development strategy and undertook a feasibility analysis for the proposed strategy. 

'98

Concept Development

The Minister for Planning proclaimed University Square a Project of State Significance. Approval was obtained to create 50,000m2 of additional space outside the university's existing boundaries.

In 1998 Equiset entered into a development agreement with The University of Melbourne to deliver the project. Equiset then entered into a construction contract with Grocon as the builder.

'01

Delivery

The project was completed in 2001.

Equiset overcame numerous complexities throughout the project including:

  • constructing the law school over an operating telephone exchange
  • retaining and enhancing heritage buildings
  • negotiating the relocation of an existing bowling club to Fitzroy 

Features and Statistics

  • An eight-level building on the corner of Grattan and Barry Streets, Carlton incorporating original Victorian terrace houses (Alan Gilbert Building)
  • A seven-level building on Barry Street incorporating original Victorian terrace houses (ICT Building)
  • An 11-level building on Pelham Street (Law Building)
  • A three-level law library, including a humidity and temperature-controlled rare book room
  • A large public square, created by relocating a bowling club, and including a six-level, 1100-car underground car park
  • State-of-the-art teaching facilities
  • A five-star executive conference facility
  • A world-class moot court, where students can train and learn in a genuine court environment
  • Total floor space of 53,000m2 NLA 
Awards 

In 2004 Equiset won the Property Council of Australia’s prestigious Rider Hunt Award for University Square.

The judges considered a wide range of criteria including owner and user satisfaction, industry and community perception, efficiency of operation and maintenance, adaptability, quality of design and finish, quality of services and Environmentally Sustainable Design
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University Square

University Square is an outstanding development that provides world-class facilities for Australia's top-ranked university.

Described by the Victorian Government as a project of state significance, the AU$250 million University Square comprises three major buildings developed around an established open square and a six-level underground car park.

This world-class knowledge precinct provides much-needed space for several university faculties.

Completed in December 2001, University Square carries the Equiset hallmark of delivering intelligent and innovative property solutions to specific needs.

The project was delivered on time and on budget.