RMIT University, Academic Building 2 Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

Comprising 10,000m2 of specialist teaching space, cross-discipline learning environments and staff accommodation over four floors, the building provides RMIT University’s students and staff with the same world-class contemporary learning environments enjoyed within their Melbourne campuses.

The second main teaching building on a rapidly growing campus the design of this facility needed to consider future curriculum requirements. The result is a highly flexible, robust and contextual building that responds to the local climate and culture in combination with delivery contemporary and innovative teaching and learning spaces. Containing various scales of general teaching spaces in addition to studios, laboratories and staff accommodation coalescing around a central learning ‘axis’ connected by a central speed stair.

Internally, the activities are organised around a centralised vertical connection that acts as ‘the academic heart’ of the building. This ‘heart’ is inhabited by flexible learning and breakout areas and supported by specialist learning spaces. As well as being naturally lit from above, the generosity and variety of the breakout areas gives flexibility, adaptability and amenity enabling future change.
Fronting a major highway, the building creates a formidable entry statement and brands the campus from afar.