Neuroscience Research Australia NeuRA
Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) is an independent, not-for-profit research institute. Its research work is focused on the human brain. This project is stage 1 of a planned neurological research precinct within the Randwick education/health district. The NeuRA precinct is to be delivered in 4 stages, accommodating 700 researchers.
The design intent for the stage 1 building includes:
Creating an enduring and memorable identity and image for the research organisation – one that not only gives it presence on barker street, but more critically gives it a distinct identity within the international research community; Creating rational and flexible research floorplates which afford maximum social exchange and research collaboration; Addressing the client’s brief for the architecture to be “freely poetic and expressive – as opposed to the ‘reductively’ rational”
The stage 1 building includes shared facilities to the total future precinct as well as open, transparent, shared research environments where researchers are clustered in flexible cohorts of 6-10. A ‘serrated or chevron skin’ solution addresses the urban design, technical (reflectivity, solar penetration and geometric) issues on the south and east elevations, while at the same time facilitating a memorable image for NeuRA – addressing their principle brief requirement.
Project Info
Architects: Cox Architecture
Location: Sydney, New South Wales
Client: Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA)
Project Status: Completed
Key Consultants: AECOM (Davis Langdon), WT Partnership, Taylor Thomson Whitting, Shelmerdines, AJ Whipps, PKA Acoustic Consulting, Tract, Cundall, Access Associates, Windtech, VOS
Cox Team: Joe Agius, Mark Davey
Contractor / Builder: Richard Crookes Constructions
Cost: $40,000,000
Gross Floor Area: 13,000m2
Year: 2013
Type: Research Center
Hadeer Shahin is the Built Projects Editor at Arch2O, where she curates innovative architectural works from around the globe. With a background in architecture from Alexandria University and hands-on experience in design and digital content, she bridges the gap between technical precision and editorial vision. Hadeer’s keen eye for spatial storytelling and her passion for contemporary design trends make her a vital contributor to Arch2O’s mission of highlighting excellence in the built environment.