Mecanoo design two new buildings for the University of New South Wales

Construction is underway on the first stage of the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Canberra City campus, designed by Tenderstream member Hassell. Leading architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture, Hassell is delivering two high-performance, low-carbon, multipurpose buildings at the corner of Constitution Avenue and Coranderrk Street in Canberra’s inner southern suburb of Parkes, on Ngunnawal, Ngunawal, and Ngambri Country.

The new campus will support education and research in defence, cybersecurity and digital engineering. Designed with a strong focus on sustainability, the buildings will feature low-carbon materials, energy-efficient systems and climate-responsive design, supported by landscaped green spaces and pedestrian-friendly pathways. 

Consultation with Djinjama and Ngurra Advisory has helped shape the campus’s approach to honouring and connecting with Country. The design of Building 1 takes inspiration from the tradition of wearing possum skins for protection in both winter and summer. The resulting curved façade is a soft, human-scaled surface that fosters a sense of warmth and connection. The building’s terracotta coloration takes its cue from the hues of the red-flowered Kurrajong, which flower from late Spring to Autumn.

The two new contemporary six-storey buildings feature state-of-the-art teaching and research facilities, retail outlets, cultural and student-focused spaces, and dedicated areas for both new and existing industry partners. The structures will be physically connected by a series of elevated bridges on the upper levels, designed to foster interaction and collaboration among students, staff and research partners.

Andrew Barr, ACT Chief Minister, stated the the project “will not only deliver a campus that revitalises the eastern edge of the Canberra CBD, but also bring new employment and students, attracting about 6,000 more students and educators to Canberra.” 

The first stage of the campus is expected to open to students in early 2028.

Lucy Nordberg

Tenderstream Head of Research

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