An iconic building progressing the use of energy-saving technologies

Designed to be an iconic building for the UNSW Campus and a gateway to the Faculty of Engineering, the purpose of the 15,000m2 facility was to provide a space where research, education and industry co-function in the progression of sustainable energy technologies.

The building uses a number of energy-saving technologies, such as an underground labyrinth, and a highly efficient Façade made of glass and terracotta tiles. The featured steel roof spans across the atrium and cantilevers over the entrance podium using triangular trusses, spanning over 20 metres. The central atrium contains steel bridges and cantilever stairs. TTW carefully selected materials to minimize the environmental impact of the development.

With a diverse and dynamic workload, the structural design was tested for vibration and load-bearing to deliver a 6-star green certified and cutting edge learning facility - making it one of only five education projects certified with 6 Green Stars and the only 6 Green Star laboratory building in Australia.

Client: University of New South Wales

Architect: FJMT

Builder: Brookfield Multiplex

Value: $200M

Completion: 2012

Sector: Universities, Research

Services: Structural, Civil, Facade

Awards

  • 2015 Teaching / Mixed Use Laboratory International S-Lab Design Award
  • 2012 MBA – Tertiary Buildings (over $50M)
  • 2012 MBA – National Public Buildings Award ($50M)
  • 2012 MBA NSW – Outstanding Construction Award
  • 2012 MBA – Excellence Award