Stop 4: University of Melbourne Union House

Whereas Baillieu serves as a central hub for studying, the Union House is a hub for socializing. Filled with food suppliers and chatting students, the atmosphere is more lively than studious. The basement has a bathroom painted hot pink with rows of stalls, a hot bed of opportunity for latrinalia. On these walls students leave witty statements and rhymes. There are still emotional expressions, but the mood is generally more light-hearted in tone. This possibly reflects the purpose this space serves, as libraries are conducive to studying (and therefore stressing) whereas the Union House encourages eating and generally relaxing. Graffiti writers still respond to each other on these walls, but more as amusing commentary for future readers rather than as a conversation with each other. Some even find creative places for writing, taking advantage of toilet paper holders and posters in the stalls.

Images

Map