The Stables
Former Victoria Police stables transformed into world-class teaching and learning facilities for Visual Art students.
Following a multimillion-dollar makeover, the former Victoria Police Mounted Branch stables have been reimagined as a best-in-class facility for learning and creative collaboration.
Designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects, the new visual arts wing features 170 studios and flexible exhibition spaces. The former riding school boasts a 260-seat multipurpose arts wing for theatre, dance, music theatre and music performances.
The heritage features of the original buildings of the stables are retained through the bluestone mounting yards, red brick façade and unique octagonal roof and skylight. The redevelopment also provides a new entry point into the University and further opens up the Southbank campus to students, local businesses and residents by creating public walkways.
In 2019 the Green Building Council of Australia awarded The Stables a 5 Star Green Star (Design & As Built v1.1 Certified Rating), which represents Australian Excellence in sustainable design and construction. The Stables is the University of Melbourne’s first ever ‘As-Built’ Green Star certified project.
Explore the Stables
‘A world-class arts training faculty’
Handing over the reins at The Stables
Kerstin Thompson gives us a guided tour
Photos by Trevor Mein