VIA Architects, in collaboration with TLC Healthcare, is proud to announce that TLC Healthcare | Mordialloc has been recognised with the 2024 Good Design Australia Award for Social Impact—one of the most respected design accolades globally. These awards represent an international endorsement of exceptional design that puts people first, highlighting our studio’s commitment to integrating Good Design principles at every stage of the architectural process.

Australia’s first multigenerational community care precinct, TLC Healthcare | Mordialloc integrates aged care, early learning, primary care, health and wellness facilities and a village café into a cohesive built environment. This pioneering approach has the potential to reshape how we view and deliver community care across the nation.

BRIDGING GENERATIONS THROUGH DESIGN

One of the precinct’s standout features is the intergenerational Jellyfish program, bringing aged care residents and children from the early learning centre together for shared activities like storytelling, gardening, cooking and Tai Chi. The program nurtures meaningful interaction and mutual learning across generations—addressing not only the practical needs of the community, but also its emotional and social dimensions.

“This project demonstrates how architecture can go beyond functionality and aesthetics to facilitate real human connection,” said Frank Bambino, Managing Director of VIA Architects. “Alongside TLC Healthcare, we’ve created a precinct that supports wellbeing at every stage of life and leaves a lasting impact on the community.”

SHAPING ENVIRONMENTS FOR COMMUNITY WELLBEING

At the heart of the precinct is a commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its users—from aged care residents to children, staff and members of the broader community. VIA worked closely with various stakeholders throughout the design process, ensuring that each space was created to meet the specific needs and daily realities of those who would benefit from it.

“It wasn’t just about creating spaces for different services; it was about designing an environment that enhances the quality of life for the whole community, both within and outside of the precinct,” added Frank. “The result is a vibrant, interconnected precinct that supports multiple generations, embodying values of human-centric design that VIA holds at its core.”

INNOVATION THROUGH INTEGRATION

The strength of TLC Healthcare | Mordialloc lies in the seamless integration of various, often siloed, services into a cohesive community care model. This innovative approach encourages natural interactions between different user groups beyond the confines of the Jellyfish program, enhancing experiences through intergenerational connection. Shared facilities—including the village café, gym, Pilates studio and pool—are accessible to both residents and the broader neighbourhood, fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging.

“We’re proud to have been part of a project that will serve as a replicable and scalable model for multigenerational community care,” said Frank. “TLC Healthcare’s forward-thinking vision, combined with our studio’s user-centric design approach, acts as a powerful example of what’s possible when architecture aligns with purpose.”

Research partnerships with Griffith University and the University of Melbourne were instrumental in shaping both the Jellyfish program and VIA’s design response. Studies by Griffith University demonstrate the positive effects of intergenerational programs on elderly wellbeing, while ongoing research by the University of Melbourne will focus on the developmental benefits of the Jellyfish program for children.

BUILDING A SOCIAL LEGACY

TLC Healthcare | Mordialloc is designed to create real change. As the University of Melbourne continues its research into the impact of the Jellyfish program, the findings will offer key insights into how multigenerational environments can shape social outcomes and improve the quality of life for a diverse range of individuals. The focus on its measurable impact positions the precinct as a leader in social impact design, demonstrating how architecture can deliver spaces that connect, uplift and transform communities.