arete Australia is proud to announce the completion of the Ian Potter Museum of Art Education Centre, Main Works project for The University of Melbourne. Delivered under a $14 million Design and Construct contract, this complex and transformative build expands the existing museum into the historic Physics Annex building, originally constructed in the early 1900s and extended in the 1930s.
The project involved the fitout of both the ground and first floors to create a dedicated Education and Programs Centre. The new spaces include academic seminar rooms, public program areas and a purpose-built foyer and reception space. A key feature of the redevelopment was the relocation of the museum’s main entry from Swanston Street to Masson Road, creating a new point of arrival for visitors alongside a future café offering. These works involved significant structural modifications, including demolition and re-construction of floor levels to align previously disconnected buildings.
arete’s delivery included the installation of a new lift and the replacement of the existing lift in the Fender Katsalidis-designed building. The team also completed a full services upgrade, including mechanical, electrical, fire, hydraulics, security and specialised audio-visual systems. In keeping with the University’s sustainability goals, the mechanical scope included the replacement of the existing rooftop thermal plant with a fully electric system, eliminating gas reliance and improving overall energy efficiency.
The refurbished basement now houses upgraded amenities, back-of-house facilities and plant rooms, supporting the expanded operations of the museum. The new teaching and learning spaces on Level 1 are designed to support object-based learning, allowing students and researchers to engage with artworks not on public display. The project also included new landscaping works along Masson Road, reinforcing the museum’s role as a key gateway to the Parkville campus.
Throughout construction, the existing café remained operational with uninterrupted access. arete ensured careful coordination of works to minimise disruption, maintaining a collaborative relationship with the University and museum stakeholders at every stage.
This project represents a significant step forward in the University’s vision to integrate culture, learning and public engagement. arete Australia is honoured to have played a key role in delivering this important addition to Melbourne’s cultural and academic landscape.
