University of New South Wales E4 and F23

  • Description Specialised learning laboratories
  • Location kensington
  • Sector Learning
  • Sub-Sector Education, Health, Specialist Learning
  • Specialties Fitout, Live Environment, Refurbishment
  • Contract Type Fixed Lump Sum, GC21
  • Delivery Method Construct Only
  • Client University of New South Wales
  • Architect Burtenshaw Scoufis (E4), Wetherill Architects (F23)
  • Photographer Paramount Studios
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The new Digital Fabrication Laboratories (E4) and Human Behavioural Dry Testing Laboratories at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) create contemporary, purpose‑built environments that support hands‑on learning, advanced research and real‑world innovation. These facilities give students, academics and researchers access to modern fabrication tools, motion‑capture technologies and immersive testing environments that enhance creativity, experimentation and the study of human movement.

Construction took place across 2 locations within a live university campus, requiring careful planning to maintain safe access and minimise disruption to daily campus activities. The team managed noise, vibration and dust around sensitive equipment and coordinated closely with UNSW stakeholders to schedule service shutdowns, deliveries and high‑impact works. The Level 12 works also required additional controls around vertical access, material handling and safe movement through occupied floors.

8141 UNSW F23 And E4 2

The Digital Fabrication Laboratory, designed by Burtenshaw Scoufis, features a suite of Trotec laser cutters, including 6 Speedy 360 units and a large‑format SP500, along with a Zünd vinyl cutter for precision work across acrylic, timber, cardboard, leather and textiles. The Human Behavioural Dry Testing Laboratories, designed by Wetherill Architects, incorporate Vicon 3D motion‑capture systems, marker less tracking, wearable sensors, VR/AR technology and high‑density surface electromyography (HD-sEMG) equipment to support advanced movement analysis, rehabilitation research and neuromuscular studies.

The full project scope included construction of the new Digital Fabrication Laboratories on the ground floor of the Squarehouse and the Human Behavioural Dry Testing Laboratories on Level 12 of the Mathews Building, along with all associated mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and specialist services and installation of all equipment.

These new facilities strengthen UNSW’s capability in digital fabrication, biomechanics and human‑movement research, providing high‑quality spaces that support innovation, collaboration and future‑focused learning.