AN AUSTRALIAN FIRST IN INTERGENERATIONAL COMMUNITY CARE

TLC Mordialloc is an Australian-first intergenerational healthcare precinct that integrates residential aged care, early learning, hospitality and wellness facilities accessible to the broader public. This ground breaking approach to community care was brought to life by TLC Healthcare, underpinned by their vision of creating a vibrant hub where residents and neighbours of all ages can thrive.

Our design intent for TLC Mordialloc set out to foster connectivity both within and outside the building’s walls, encouraging residents to feel a sense of integration in their local community. From the fluid, curving facade that greets you at street level, to the public-facing cafe that activates the frontage, creating a large-scale street presence that would welcome locals into the space was a primary consideration.

Each unique entrance was considered from the perspective of its street position and community purpose. The cantilever protruding from the main White Street entrance was integrated to serve as both a functional porte-cochere for service vehicles, whilst adding a grand sculptural feature to the streetscape. This design feature seamlessly continues inside, where the curvature extends to the reception desktop encourage movement into the 147-place aged care residences. The vastness of the cantilever opens into a void above, decorated by intricate chandeliers that elicit an appreciate of the building’s scale.

On the Eastern side of the building, a verdant open space links the neighbouring townhomes with the McCaffery Place entrance, inviting the local community to utilise the facilities. Moving inside, a 6-doctor medical centre, commercial health club and 20m heated pool are open to both aged care residents and the public.

A naturally lit oculus acts as the central hub for the building, flooding each level with natural light and providing a commonality to each space. Bringing the outside in, the oculus creates a connection to nature as it climbs through the centre of the building. This biophilic design approach continues throughout, with a dedicated dementia sensory garden providing stimulus for residents, and a communal rooftop garden that overlooks Melbourne’s bayside.

The tone of the building changes at McDonald Street, where children and families are welcomed into the 118-place early learning centre. The unimposing entrance features softer curves, brighter signage and playful colours to appeal to its younger visitors. Inspired the Mordialloc coastline, an ocean theme sweeps through the entirety of the centre, creating a space truly unique to its location. From the naming of the rooms after various aquatic life, to the tactile ropes that encourage physical play, the space stirs both imagination and education.

CELEBRATING SUCCESS

UDIA Victoria Awards for Industry Excellence 2023

Excellence in Seniors Living – Winner

The Property Council of Australia 2024 Innovation & Excellence Awards

Design Innovation – Finalist

Photography by: Jaime Diaz-Berrio