Paul Morgan Architects completed the refurbishment of the Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne, located on Swanston Street near the University of Melbourne. The practice aimed to support the hospital’s mission to provide public dental services to eligible Victorians and emergency care to all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, children and young people, refugees and asylum seekers and special needs patients.

A biophilic design approach was adopted. This biophilic or salutogenic design strategy for the hospital promotes health and wellbeing by creating an environment that includes wellness enabling elements, contributing to the sense of wellbeing for patients and staff and encouraging the healing process. The design of waiting areas and consulting rooms, completed in concert with Zilka Studio, utilized the warm hues of the Australian bush.

A new entry is friendly, like a child’s toy. On a major Melbourne street, it strongly signifies a new entrance for the hospital. Colour, lighting and architectural elements direct the public to the information desk. Although signage is present, the approach is wayfinding via architecture.