The New Footscray Hospital reimagines healthcare as a civic and social condition, founded on the idea of “the People’s Hospital” – a place shaped by sustained community advocacy and engagement. Rather than a monolithic building, the hospital is conceived as five interconnected structures organised around a central Village Green, a shared landscape that supports community connection, wellbeing and everyday use.

The project embeds landscape as structure, with over 20,000 sqm dedicated to planted environments including courtyards, terraces, wintergardens and green roofs. Native species drawn from the Maribyrnong corridor establish ecological continuity, while up to 90% of roof rainfall is captured and reused. Every patient room has access to natural daylight and views to landscape, supporting circadian rhythm, reducing stress and enhancing recovery outcomes. Waiting areas and public spaces are oriented toward the Village Green, transforming moments of anxiety into opportunities for connection with nature.

Materially, the hospital draws from its context, with brick at the base referencing Footscray’s residential streets, transitioning to glazed inpatient towers above. Natural materials such as timber, terrazzo and terracotta, alongside sculpted forms and soft edges, create warmth, legibility and a calming environment.

First Nations cultural guidance is embedded throughout, with Woi Wurrung language, public art, and ecological narratives shaping the design. The Welcome to Country tapestry and culturally informed spaces reinforce connection to Country and community identity.

Sustainability is integral, targeting a 5 Star Green Star rating (aspiring to 6 Star) and WELL Gold. An 840kW solar array, high-performance envelope, low-VOC materials and future electrification support long-term resilience. Through integrated design and strong social outcomes, the project delivers a benchmark in environmentally responsible, culturally rich and socially just healthcare infrastructure.

Photography: Peter Bennetts