Macquarie University 1 Central Courtyard Building
Macquarie University 1 Central Courtyard Building
Client:
Macquarie University
Location:
Macquarie Park, NSW
Status:
Completed, 2021
Floor ARea"
21 210 sqm
Contact Person:
Luke Johnson
Read more about how Architectus worked with Macquarie University on the most comprehensive redevelopment of the Campus in two decades.
Architectus was engaged by Macquarie University to design the redevelopment of the Central Courtyard Precinct. The Hub replaces an existing building and will provide a range of flexible learning and teaching spaces, F&B venues, multi-purpose and graduation halls, and associated amenities.
Designed as a progressive and exciting contemporary building, without overt references to its Brutalist neighbours, the building form comprises a matrix of narrow, light-filled floor plates with a permeable skin, allowing views into the active spaces and views out to the beauty of the Central Courtyard Precinct’s landscaped setting. Fingers of floor plate intermesh with fingers of landscaping, blurring the distinction between inside and outside.
The building was designed from the inside out, with learning space volumes and timetable analysis driving the shape of the floor plate. The large-span structure and generous floor-to-floor heights allow natural light to spread across the large floor plate, with suspended acoustic ceilings becoming a sculptural element.
Internal voids connect the ground floor with the two upper floors, and the interior’s sightlines promote a lively sense of belonging. The interior elements lead the use of the spaces, with flooring inlays indicating different teaching scenarios, movable wall planes and interactive teaching walls.
The design visually connects to the newly landscaped Central Courtyard and the natural bushland beyond the campus.
Located at the heart of the most beautiful part of the campus, with extensive exposure to the desirable northern sun, the built form steps down to provide large north-facing decks on each level, drawing more light into the building while providing a form that sits softly within the landscape.
The vertical circulation core is highly visible from the Courtyard and from most places within the building. The two internal light courts and the stair tower combine to form a contiguous, visually open volume. Acting as an indoor/outdoor atrium, this combined space allows for clear legibility of circulation, visual connection between functions, encourages social interaction, and sustainable passive design for environmental comfort and ventilation.
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Client:
Macquarie University
Location:
Macquarie Park, NSW
Status:
Completed, 2021
Floor ARea"
21 210 sqm
Contact Person:
Luke Johnson
Read more about how Architectus worked with Macquarie University on the most comprehensive redevelopment of the Campus in two decades.
