Completed in 2023, the boarding house at 371 Church Street represents a significant milestone in Kane’s long-standing partnership with the Melbourne Indigenous Transition School (MITS).
Delivered under an open-book, “at cost” model, the project involved the demolition of existing 1920s and 1980s-era buildings and the construction of a new two-level boarding and administration facility with a basement. The purpose-built residence provides modern accommodation, communal living areas, and administrative spaces designed to support young Indigenous students during their first years in Melbourne.
With cultural guidance from Senior Wurundjeri Elder Uncle Colin Hunter, the boarding house was designed to enhance cultural safety, strengthen connection to Country, and support positive learning outcomes. The facility spans three levels, with MITS’s administrative headquarters at the front of the ground floor and key student social spaces and courtyards at the rear. Upper levels feature communal areas, study zones, and dorm rooms with integrated study nooks that balance community and independence.
The design celebrates connection to place through collaboration with Trawlwoolway artist Edwina Green, whose poured paving artwork reflects the colours and movement of Wurundjeri Country.
On the rooftop, a landscaped terrace offers city views and a gathering space among native plantings.
The building’s façade, created in collaboration with Indigenous artist Lorraine Kabbindi White, features a laser-cut perforated screen depicting the Dreamtime story of the First Bees — a striking “always was, always will be” statement for MITS and its community.
The project has been recognised with multiple design and architecture honours learn more here.
