A cacophony of sounds surrounds you. Building T isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to Melbourne’s history. Right here on the corner of Bowen Street and La Trobe Street stands Building 1. This isn’t just any building. It’s the original heart of RMIT University. Built in 1887 as the Working Men’s College it began as a night school. Francis Ormond a visionary grazier and politician founded it. He wanted to bring art science and technology to working men. Ormond cleverly secured a prime city location. He lobbied for this site near the Melbourne Public Library. It was a stroke of genius. The proximity to the library and the Art Gallery proved invaluable.
Building T’s story is intertwined with Melbourne’s past. Initially it bordered the Melbourne Gaol. The proximity to the gaol is a fascinating aspect. The college expanded as the gaol was demolished. It even acquired some of the former judicial buildings. Building T stands on historically significant land. It’s an area rich in archeological discoveries too. The success of the college its growth into RMIT was unplanned. Land was acquired as it became available. This resulted in the campus expanding in an organic manner. It seamlessly integrated with the city’s fabric over the 20th century.
Today Building T forms part of the sprawling RMIT City campus. It’s the largest of RMIT’s five campuses. It covers six city blocks. The area around Swanston Street is sometimes called the RMIT Quarter. It’s a lively hub surrounded by cultural institutions and vibrant multicultural areas. Chinatown the Greek Precinct Little Italy are all nearby. Transportation is convenient with trams and Melbourne Central Station close by.
The main thoroughfare Bowen Street is a pedestrian spine. It’s designed to promote a walkable campus. There are small pockets of open space around Bowen Street. Alumni Courtyard The Belvedere Bowen Terrace Casey Plaza Ellis Court and University Lawn offer some respite from the urban intensity. The lawns of the adjacent State Library are also popular spots for students.
Building T’s story isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s about the people who learned and taught here. It reflects the changing face of Melbourne. It’s a symbol of progress a constant evolution. From a night school for working men to a world-renowned university. Its enduring legacy continues. The story of Building T is the story of RMIT. It’s the story of Melbourne itself.