arete Australia’s Centre for Eye Research Australia (CERA) project has been nominated for the 2025 Master Builders Victoria Excellence in Fitout Over $10M category.
Delivered within a live hospital environment, this project redefines what is possible in research and clinical spaces. The fitout transformed two separate tenancies into a unified, world-class facility for discovery science and patient trials in ophthalmology.
The new facility brings together precision, innovation and care, featuring highly controlled PC2 laboratories, purpose-built imaging suites, custom-designed vision lanes and a warm, welcoming patient lounge. Every space was designed to promote collaboration and enhance the experience for both patients and researchers.
Complex technical challenges were met with practical, forward-thinking solutions. The team avoided major program delays through early design intervention, providing expert advice on mechanical plant relocation and re-engineering structural systems to integrate new services, including rooftop penetrations and chiller lifts across eleven storeys, all completed without disruption to the sensitive hospital tenancies below.
This project demanded seamless integration of specialist services, tight coordination and open consultation. The result is a technically advanced environment that supports world-leading ophthalmic research while creating an inviting and accessible space for patients.
The CERA fitout is a testament to arete’s commitment to delivering projects that blend precision, innovation and humanity, spaces that empower people to do their best work.
