Adult Courses - It's not too late to enrol for Session 2 !
Adult Courses - It's not too late to enrol for Session 2 !
We're excited to announce the opening of the new Alliance Française - French Hub of Melbourne,
a vibrant transformation of one of Victoria’s most iconic buildings. Originally home to the Hoyts cinema, which opened its doors in 1966
and was added to the Victorian Heritage Register in 2014, this historic structure has now been transformed. The former mezzanine space
within this historic structure has been reimagined as a contemporary educational and cultural hub, blending heritage with
innovation.
Pictured above: The original building that once housed the Hoyts Cinema Centre
Our vision was to create an inspiring space where people could learn French and engage with French culture, which has come to life through the development of a learning school on Level 1, along with administrative offices and additional classrooms on Level 4. More than just an educational space, the design fosters an environment where people can immerse themselves in French lessons and celebrate French culture while also serving as a place for networking and connection.
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A key inspiration for the design was the expansive outdoor terrace, which features a continuous 25-meter span of windows bridging the
interior and exterior spaces. To maintain this sense of openness, classrooms were arranged around the perimeter, ensuring natural light and a
seamless visual flow between indoor and outdoor areas.
Rather than relying on overt French motifs, the design subtly nods to classical French architecture through details such as
parquetry flooring and elegant ceiling trims. The corridor, envisioned as a reference to the Seine, serves as both a functional connector
and a vibrant networking space. Much like the river that links Paris’ major landmarks, this corridor extends into a dynamic cultural
space,
fostering interaction and community engagement.
In keeping with the spirit of sustainability and innovation, we repurposed existing plywood window nooks to create informal
seating areas, encouraging organic conversations and collaboration. Future plans for the terrace include transforming it into an outdoor
learning and social space, complete with classrooms and cafés that further enhance the experience.
Embracing the latest advancements in technology and design, the cultural space also incorporates cutting-edge innovation, Micro-Folie,
ensuring a modern yet historically conscious atmosphere that will serve as a beacon of French culture, learning, and connection
for years to come.
This project was brought to life in collaboration with Tsai Design and Session Architecture.
