Kennedy Nolan appointed to help realise masterplan for heritage-listed arts precinct

Accommodation Singapore introduces

Melbourne-based practice Kennedy Nolan has been appointed to progress the evolution of a masterplan for the historic Abbotsford Convent precinct in the city's inner north-east.

The 16-acre convent site has been a place of enduring historical significance, currently serving as a multi-arts precinct.

From 1863 until 1974, the site was home to the Sisters of the Good Shepherd - at the time, "one of the largest charitable institutions in the southern hemisphere," a communique from the convent notes.

In 2017, the complex was added to the national heritage list in recognition of its historical and architectural significance. A year later, in 2018, Kerstin Thompson Architects completed an adaptive re-use of the convent's Sacred Heart building, which won a National Commendation for Heritage at the Australian Institute of Architects 2019 Architecture Awards.

In collaboration with specialist consultants, architecture practice Hassell were appointed to update the masterplan for the site, then 15 years old, in 2022.

According to the convent's communique, the appointment of Kennedy Nolan to assist in the realisation of the masterplan marks a significant milestone in the site's journey of renewal.

CEO of the Abbotsford Convent Foundation Justine Hyde said, "Abbotsford Convent has always been a place where heritage and creativity converge - partnering with Kennedy Nolan ensures that our built and natural environment will continue to inspire and serve the community while respecting the unique character of our beloved precinct."

"As a values-aligned local practice known for its sensitive, human-centred approach, Kennedy Nolan was a natural choice to progress this next phase of work," Hyde added. "Their appointment underscores the convent's commitment to design that is both forward-thinking and deeply grounded in place to create spaces that invite creativity, inclusivity and sustainability."

Kennedy Nolan principal Rachel Nolan said the studio was honoured with the appointment. "Our partnership with Abbotsford Convent is enormously satisfying to us, bringing together so many elements of intrinsic importance to our practice: First Nations priorities, repair of ecology, growing infrastructure for creative production, inclusivity and placemaking for Melbourne and its many visitors," she said.

The convent's communique notes that over the next six months, Kennedy Nolan "will scope and prioritise key projects for development in realising the 2022 convent masterplan vision to protect and enhance the precinct for future generations."

In June this year, Hyde expressed opposition to plans for the four-storey redevelopment of an aged-care facility designed by Life Architecture and Urban Design (formerly CHT Architects) for Mercy Health, located adjacent to the heritage-listed Good Shepherd Chapel. The application is currently under assessment from Heritage Victoria.