Elevating Science Through Design

On the edge of Stingaree Bay in Geelong, HDR is designing a new chapter for one of the world’s most secure research environments: the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP), operated by Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). This high-containment BSL3/PC3 laboratory expansion reimagines the relationship between science, architecture, and place — delivering a design that is both highly performative and deeply humane.

Shaped by Country, Inspired by Nature

Responding to the unique qualities of Country, the new laboratory wing is shaped by the intersection of land, water, and sky. The architectural form is horizontally stratified, with a materially rich base grounded in the landscape and a lighter, fluted upper form that reflects movement, breeze, and light. The façade is gently animated, shimmering with changing daylight and offering a calm yet evocative presence along the shoreline.

Inside, the architecture inverts the traditional “box-in-a-box” containment model. Rather than isolating scientists within enclosed spaces, HDR’s design places laboratories at the perimeter, wrapped by a light-filled, pressurised corridor. This allows daylight to penetrate deeply into the building and enables scientists to look outward to nature while carrying out vital biosecurity work.

Technical Clarity, Human Focus

Planning is driven from the inside out. The wing’s complex technical requirements are met with a clear logic of orientation, intuitive circulation, and moments of connection. Laboratories and support spaces are organised by risk level and function, while arrival, collaboration, and break areas are positioned to maximise natural light and views across Port Phillip Bay.

This is a facility where science and humanity are held in equal regard – a national research and outbreak response centre designed to ensure the continuation of CSIRO’s capability to respond to exotic animal and zoonotic diseases in Australia, and to support the people who study them. 

The ACDP Expansion project is a partnership between HDR, Aurecon, and Wood PLC as part of the Bio Design Collaborative (BDC). 

Images: HDR Concept Image