Western Sydney University, Parramatta Square

Located in the heart of the Parramatta CBD, Western Sydney University’s vertical city campus sets a new standard for future-focused, student-centred education. Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed at a custom-built reception desk crafted from Corian® in Natural Grey, chosen for its sleek, seamless appearance, durability, and low-maintenance qualities—ideal for the high-traffic demands of a contemporary learning environment.

The campus is designed around the concept of “me (student), we (university), us (community),” blending the functions of a commercial office with those of a dynamic learning institution. A porous central atrium connects multiple floors, encouraging movement, sightlines, and spontaneous interaction. Interconnecting stairs and voids create a sense of openness, supporting the university’s commitment to collaborative learning without traditional lecture theatres.

Flexible learning zones accommodate a range of disciplines—including Business, Economics, and Engineering—while open-plan academic workspaces invite staff to engage directly with students, dissolving hierarchical barriers. Social and breakout areas, framed by natural materials and full-height glazing, support informal learning with comfortable, reconfigurable furniture and strong visual connections to the outdoors.

Sustainability is integral to the campus design, with the building achieving 5-star Green Star accreditation. Features include passive solar design, energy-efficient lighting with smart controls, and the use of low-VOC and low-formaldehyde materials to improve indoor air quality. Over 80% of construction and demolition waste was recycled, and a high percentage of furniture and flooring products are environmentally certified. Materials such as Corian®, used in the reception desk, contribute to the project’s environmental credentials due to their long-lasting, repairable, and low-emission properties—supporting both aesthetic and sustainable design goals. Wellness and end-of-trip facilities further enhance the building’s socially responsible approach.

Retail activation, digital wayfinding, and seamless links to nearby transport integrate the building with the broader civic and cultural precinct, positioning WSU as a forward-thinking hub at the intersection of education, community, and industry.