TLC Healthcare | Mordialloc

TLC Healthcare | Mordialloc responds to research by Griffith University highlighting the positive effects of intergenerational programs. The challenge was to create a cohesive environment that would effectively integrate multiple services, promoting multigenerational connections and positive social outcomes. This involved designing a replicable model that fosters inclusivity and wellbeing across various demographics. Overcoming obstacles in spatial planning and regulatory compliance, the aim was to pioneer a groundbreaking solution that would address fragmented care systems while promoting community engagement.

In alignment with Griffith University’s research, TLC Healthcare | Mordialloc incorporates the Jellyfish program, fostering tangible and measurable intergenerational engagement. VIA Architects’ design solution was anchored in principles of inclusive design, promoting social connection beyond the confines of the program. Confronting spatial challenges head-on, the precinct achieves the seamless integration of multiple services, prioritising the multifaceted user experience. The innovative model establishes a new standard in community care, delivering multiple benefits for both end-users and the broader community. It epitomises the profound impact of social impact design, with a core emphasis on fostering holistic wellbeing supported by invaluable research partnerships.

TLC Healthcare | Mordialloc’s innovative approach fosters societal cohesion and wellbeing. Through the strategic co-location of five services, the precinct drives commercial benefits while enabling individuals to access diverse services within one building. This innovative approach not only enhances convenience, but also enables community members to significantly reduce their travel requirements, leading to a notable decrease in their carbon footprint. Socially, it sets a new standard for intergenerational engagement, driving positive change across vast age groups. Through its pioneering Jellyfish program and collaborative research initiatives, the precinct exemplifies the transformative potential of social impact design.

Each of the precinct’s three street-facing entry points was designed to reflect their position and purpose, creating a warm welcome for aged care residents, visitors, children, parents and members of the broader community. The cantilever protruding from the main White Street entrance was integrated to serve as a functional porte-cochere for service vehicles whilst adding a grand sculptural element to the streetscape. This unique design feature continues inside, where the curvature extends to the reception desk encouraging movement into the 147-place aged care residences. The communal hub at McCaffery Place includes the medical centre and TLC health club, with a 20m pool, gym and Pilates studio, open to aged care residents and Mordialloc locals. A naturally lit open oculus at the centre of the building, which expands as it climbs up the 3-levels, brings a connection to nature into the heart of the precinct while providing a commonality to each space. The tone of the building noticeably changes at McDonald Street, with the unimposing Early Learning Centre entrance featuring softer curves, brighter signage and playful colours to appeal to its younger visitors. Inspired by the Mordialloc coastline, an ocean theme sweeps through the centre, stirring imagination and education.