Gymhaus, A Campus in Motion

The core concept of Gymhaus is fusion—an ambitious attempt to explore the new possibilities that arise from the collision and combination of distinct functional spaces. Set within the urban precinct surrounding MCG Stadium, this project envisions a campus where the boundaries between learning, sports, and recreation are blurred, fostering a more open and democratic atmosphere.

Key integrations

• Swimming Pool & Student Union Center: This unique combination celebrates a more relaxed and liberated form of “campus politics,” potentially fostering a more inclusive and democratic environment where students can unwind and engage in meaningful discussions.
• Open-Plan Classrooms & Sports Arenas: Spaces for table tennis and badminton are seamlessly integrated with open teaching areas, allowing for quick transitions between serious study and light physical activity. This design encourages a balance between mental and physical well-being, helping students avoid the psychological strain caused by overly stressful environments.
• Library & Climbing Wall: The library is combined with a climbing wall, offering a space where physical and intellectual pursuits coexist, encouraging a more holistic approach to student development.
• Lecture Halls & Basketball Courts: Teaching spaces are paired with basketball courts, reinforcing the idea that academic rigor can coexist with physical fitness.
• Study Rooms & Cycling Tracks: Study areas are integrated with cycling paths, providing students with an active yet focused environment for their academic endeavors.
• Exhibition Hall & MCG Stadium Exit: The exhibition hall is connected to the MCG Stadium’s exit, combining the cultural influence of the sports world with academic exhibitions from the University, aiming to enhance the impact of both spheres.

Visual and Stylistic Approach

The visual style of Gymhaus draws inspiration from the late 1960s Archigram movement, known for its bold, imaginative, and often satirical architectural visions. Located within the dynamic context of the MCG Stadium precinct, the project employs strong visual compositions and vibrant colors to celebrate a future where traditional education is reimagined to be more diverse, healthy, and adaptive to the needs of modern students. The architectural drawings convey a sense of playful provocation, urging a rethink of the rigid and often stagnant atmosphere of conventional educational environments.

Gymhaus stands as a radical redefinition of the learning environment, proposing a future where academic spaces are no longer isolated from the physical and social activities that contribute to a well-rounded education. By merging diverse functions within the MCG Stadium campus, Gymhaus promotes a more inclusive, democratic, and mentally healthy educational experience. It is a visionary response to the challenges of modern education, offering a glimpse into a more vibrant, dynamic, and human-centered future.

This project was completed in the fall of 2019 at Lyons Architect as my final studio work for the Bachelor of Architectural Design at RMIT. It was guided by Adam Pustola and Nina Wyatt.