Gate 8 occupies an active and visible corner in Melbourne, enroute to and from Yarra Park and the Melbourne Cricket Ground. With the architecture embracing this activity and visibility, Gate 8 is a dynamic community-focused enterprise that brings together charities, philanthropists and entrepreneurs working for social change.

Complementing its East Melbourne surroundings, Gate 8 is an elegant yet humble crafted brick building that embodies the client’s values. With architecture evocative of a New York warehouse, it has presence and gravitas and positively contributes and gives back to the community.

The tall elevation faces Yarra Park, and tiered setbacks step down at the rear of the building to create a scale respectful of the neighbouring heritage cottage. Two curved indents break the mass into three silos that’s more sensitive to the proportions of the precinct, and the rhythmic colonnade of brick arches enlivens the street. These double-height arches frame views of the lobby – a dynamic community space where everyone is welcome, and the visibility bestows people with a sense of empowerment, dignity and belonging.

The lobby is a rich architectural and social experience, with overlapping spaces and functions that invite people to explore and meander. Streat Café sits beneath a mezzanine balcony, and an open auditorium provides a forum for discussion and ideas. A workshop space is connected to the lobby; a gym and wellness centre are on the first floor; and offices and co-working spaces are distributed throughout the building, bringing together a like-minded community working for social good.