Revolutionising Data Centre Design

With the ever-increasing digitisation of work, life and play, data centres are becoming fundamental infrastructure in our built environment. NEXTDC Merlot 2 (M2) is a colocation data centre that delivers 60 megawatts of critical IT infrastructure to enterprise and government in a climate of unprecedented digital innovation.

Strategically located near Melbourne’s Tullamarine airport and its surrounding transport and telecommunications network, the campus stands proud as a landmark in its site context. The building’s dynamic form and striking red filigree façade of articulating blades respond to the high level of solar exposure, optimise sun shading and create a dappled effect across the transformative structure.

Designing for Data

Generated through emerging data-driven design technologies, HDR has utilised computational and generative design to rapidly evaluate manipulated parameters in real time and deliver a purpose-built campus that can scale into a network of interconnected data halls on demand. By thoughtfully integrating deeply technical, data-driven processes, while still maintaining focus on community well-being, a resilient, sustainable, and high-performance facility has been conceived.

A New Precedent in Workplace Design

The high-grade contemporary workspace brings collaboration and flexibility to the forefront of workplace design and is a wellness-driven amenity with a well-defined heart and strong brand identity. The open-plan workspaces, auditorium, training rooms, boardroom, and front-of-house area empower NEXTDC’s high-performing teams and foster a culture of innovation. The recurring symbol of the cloud throughout the workplace evokes continuous, organic movement, while the guiding cable motif is a subtle technological nod. The juxtaposition between the red hues and timber carves out a distinct and unique identity for the space that is evocative of the NEXTDC brand.