University of New South Wales Hilmer Building

Grimshaw has designed a new research laboratory facility for the University of New South Wales Australia’s School of Materials Science and Engineering and School of Chemical Engineering. The scheme provides seamless links between physical and chemical science laboratories and working spaces for researchers, academics and faculty members. A modular and reconfigurable laboratory system is framed by write-up spaces, offices and meetings rooms that connect vertically and encourage collaboration through an immediate interface with the researchers’ activities.

Photography by Peter Bennetts

A high-performance façade configures the building’s expression with full-height glazing and honed off-white cast GRC louvres angled in response to solar orientation. The scheme defines the southern edge of the new Alumni Green with a deep sunlit colonnade, purposely proportioned for contemplation and informal outdoor meetings. The Michael Crouch Innovation Centre (MCIC) addresses the colonnade, and it is here that the University showcases emerging ideas, and offers experiential learning programmes aligned with industry participation and community outreach.

A high-performance façade configures the building’s expression with full-height glazing and honed off-white cast GRC louvres angled in response to solar orientation. A modular and reconfigurable laboratory system is framed by write-up spaces, offices and meetings rooms that connect vertically and encourage collaboration through an immediate interface with the researchers’ activities.

Photography by Peter Bennetts

The Materials Science and Engineering Building was the recipient of the 2016 Educational Architecture Award from the Australian Institute of Architects (NSW Chapter). Henceforth it will be formally named the Hilmer Building in recognition of the outstanding service and dedication of University of New South Wales’ former President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Fred Hilmer AO.

The MSE Building reinforces the university’s reputation as one of the world’s top universities in this sector, facilitating top quality research in state-of-the-art facilities.

Photography by Peter Bennetts

Project Info
Architects : Grimshaw Architects
Location : Sydney, Australia
Client : University of New South Wales
Year : 2015
Type : Research Center
Photographs : Peter Bennetts