The Parliament of Victoria Members’ Annexe, designed by Peter Elliott Architecture + Urban Design, addresses the pressing need for office space for 102 members of parliament and their support staff. This new building marks a significant milestone, resolving a longstanding issue of inadequate and makeshift offices for parliament members, alongside failed attempts to extend Parliament House.

Context and Design Concept

Located within the eastern gardens of the Parliamentary precinct in Victoria, the annexe stands as a separate free-standing structure. However, it maintains connectivity with Parliament House through a bridge, tunnel, and laneway connections. Parliament House itself holds historical significance, evolving over several decades since the mid-nineteenth century. Architect Peter Kerr’s 1856 master plan remains incomplete, with only the Spring Street façade reflecting the original vision.

Architectural Features

The annexe is conceived as a companion building set amidst lush greenery, with the entire footprint replaced by landscape on the roof and within a central courtyard. Partially sunken into the ground, the building blends topographically with the eastern garden while preserving key views from Parliament House and the garden towards St. Patrick’s Cathedral and St. Peter’s Church.

Planning and Integration

Designed as a perimeter courtyard scheme with four unequal wings, the annexe adapts to its surroundings. While appearing as a single-storey structure from the outer garden, it transforms into a uniform two-storey building within the sunken courtyard. The architectural language combines a bluestone-clad outer wall and a gridded concrete-framed façade, complementing the heritage elements and environmental sustainability initiatives.

Internal Layout and Connectivity

Internally, standardized offices are organized within each wing, fostering collaboration and interaction through informal breakout lounges and open-ended corridors. Open stairs at each corner maximize connectivity and convenience, ensuring a seamless flow between spaces while maximizing natural light and garden views.

The Parliament of Victoria Members’ Annexe stands as a testament to architectural innovation, heritage integration, and functional design, providing a conducive environment for parliamentary activities within a historic setting.