Swinburne Applied Sciences Building Workplace
Swinburne Applied Sciences Building Workplace
Client:
Swinburne University of Technology
Location:
Hawthorn, Victoria
Status:
Completed 2026
Contact Person:
Diana Rosenthal
The Applied Sciences Building Level 3 (ASL3) workplace Swinburne University of Technology was transformed into a contemporary workplace that brings academic, professional and research teams together within a connected, future-ready environment.
Part of the University’s broader workplace strategy, the project was driven by a desire to support hybrid work, foster greater collaboration across disciplines and make more effective use of existing campus infrastructure. Rather than expanding the campus footprint, the project demonstrates how targeted refurbishment can unlock new value from established assets.
From silos to connected neighbourhoods
The existing workplace reflected a traditional tertiary environment characterised by enclosed offices and separated teams. The new design introduces a more agile model centred on workplace neighbourhoods, creating a diverse range of settings that support different modes of work throughout the day.
Open work points, focus spaces, meeting rooms and informal collaboration zones are carefully integrated within a cohesive floorplate, enabling staff to choose where and how they work according to their needs. The workplace encourages movement, visibility and connection, helping break down organisational silos while supporting individual concentration.
Clear planning and intuitive circulation make the space easy to navigate, while strategically located shared amenities, including breakout hubs, project rooms and touchdown spaces, create opportunities for spontaneous interaction and knowledge exchange.
A workplace shaped by its users
User experience and change management were central to the project’s success.
Architectus worked closely with Swinburne stakeholders throughout the design process to understand existing workstyles, privacy requirements, team dynamics and technology needs. These insights informed the development of a workplace ecosystem that balances focus and collaboration while supporting the University’s transition to more flexible ways of working.
The result is a highly adaptable environment that accommodates a diverse range of users and activities while strengthening community and connection across the School.
“As stakeholders, the process was very inclusive. Your [Architectus] willingness to be flexible, listen, and take on feedback and requests well into the process, and adapt with us, has been refreshing,” shared James Verdon, Dean, School of Social Sciences, Media, Film and Education.
“The level of finish, choice of materials, attention to detail, both concrete and ephemeral, is outstanding and I am confident that as occupants, we will recognise our input and celebrate the design and construction solutions that have been delivered. The whole process has been a pleasure.” He added.
Designed for longevity
Sustainability was embedded throughout the project through the careful reuse of existing building elements, the selection of durable, sustainable and low-maintenance materials, and planning strategies that allow the workplace to evolve over time.
Integrated technology supports hybrid meetings and digital collaboration, ensuring the workplace remains responsive to changing teaching, research and operational requirements.
The completed ASL3 workplace provides a flexible foundation for the future, demonstrating how existing university spaces can be successfully transformed to meet the needs of contemporary higher education.
“The balance of shared and personal space, the availability of all the various functional areas, the warm and welcoming kitchen, the greenery and ample storage-everything we asked for–is commendable.” Senior Manager School Operations, Andrea Braganza said
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Client:
Swinburne University of Technology
Location:
Hawthorn, Victoria
Status:
Completed 2026
Contact Person:
Diana Rosenthal
