FEATURE STORY
Over and out - RSPCA
Following the completion of a four-level extension in late 2012, the refurbishment of the original RSPCA Burwood East facility included in the $18.5 million, two-stage project has been handed over.
The works included installing a new facade to the aging building and the creation of a new public entrance and foyer, a retail area, information desk, display cases and mural as well as additional consulting spaces.
Reception points for various services provided by the RSPCA were added while the existing cat adoption centre, which was formerly located outside, was incorporated into the building.
“The two buildings are joined by a coffer and the contemporary facade treatment employed on the new section is mirrored on the original structure to create a single entity rather than a campus-style range of buildings and draw attention to the centre's Burwood Highway entrance,” Bamford-Dash project architect, Barbara Bamford said.
Reflecting on the success of the project Barbara observed, “Buxton was very easy to work with; they were exceptionally flexible and accommodating both before and during the construction phase, and totally committed to delivering a first class product.”
A boutique practice with a staff of six, Bamford-Dash focuses on community buildings and state government projects but also designs residential dwellings and multi-unit developments. “We particularly enjoy resolving complex design challenges around the tight budgets that are generally associated with community projects.”
The firm designed the recently completed police station at Daylesford and is the architect for a similar project at Forest Hill.