Architectus : : Monash Centre for Electron Microscopy

The highly specialised electron microscopes housed by the new facility at Monash’s Clayton campus are extremely sensitive devices. The performance of an electron microscope is dependent on its environment: the more inert the space housing the microscope is, the better the image will be. The building has been successfully detailed to achieve an environment 100 times more stable than an operating theatre and quieter than a recording studio.

The structure sits independently on a mound sculpted from the earth. The geometry is pure and simple – a square on a segment of a sphere. The mound is 50 metres in diameter and defines the “exclusion zone” for vibration or electromagnetic interference. The freestanding form continues the original tradition of “pavilion” type buildings on the Clayton campus, and sits empathetically amongst the existing built fabric. Internally, the play with scale is continued. Tall, narrow corridors surrounding the separate, sealed laboratories imbue these spaces with an ethereal feel. Circulation is intentionally designed to promote crossing of paths acknowledging that casual interaction and exchanging of information is an important part of science. The minimal, neutral colour palette and extensive use of timber impart a sense of calm and warmth.

Winner of the RAIA Public Architecture Award 2009

Photographers:
Trevor Mein www.meinphoto.com
Peter Hyatt www.hyatt.net.au