Kennedy Nolan to progress Abbotsford Convent’s precinct master plan

Melbourne’s heritage-listed multi-arts precinct Abbotsford Convent has engaged architectural practice Kennedy Nolan to play a key role in its renewal.

Abbotsford Convent’s Sacred Heart building, previously restored in March 2018. Photo: Derek Swalwell.

Renowned for its rich history, striking built and natural landscapes and the community-led campaign to preserve it from commercial development, the six-hectare site was enshrined on Australia’s National Heritage List in 2017. Today, Abbotsford Convent is home to a vibrant creative community, wellbeing practitioners, a gallery, cafés, a radio station, two schools and green open space.

Abbotsford Convent is home to a diverse creative community.

Kennedy Nolan principal Rachel Nolan says the studio is honoured to have been selected to help shape the Convent’s next chapter.

“Our partnership with Abbotsford Convent is enormously satisfying to us, bringing together so many elements of intrinsic importance to our practice: First Nations priorities, repair of ecology, growing infrastructure for creative production, inclusivity and placemaking for Melbourne and its many visitors,” she says.

Visitors at an open day in 2024. Photo: Anne Moffat.

Kennedy Nolan’s part in Abbotsford Convent’s precinct master plan

Over the coming six months, Kennedy Nolan will scope and prioritise key projects for development in realising the 2022 Convent Master Plan vision to protect and enhance the precinct for future generations.

Abbotsford Convent’s CEO hopes to preserve the “unique character” of the beloved precinct in partnering with Kennedy Nolan.

According to Abbotsford Convent CEO Justine Hyde, Kennedy Nolan’s appointment underscores the Convent’s commitment to design that is both “forward-thinking and deeply grounded in place”.

“Partnering with Kennedy Nolan ensures that our built and natural environment will continue to inspire and serve the community while respecting the unique character of our beloved precinct,” Hyde says. “As a values-aligned local practice known for its sensitive, human-centred approach, Kennedy Nolan was a natural choice to progress this next phase of work.”