University of Sydney Susan Wakil Health Building, Sydney, NSW

The Susan Wakil Health Building is a flagship new building for the University of Sydney, a purpose-built facility for medicine and health disciplines, re-defining the quality of their research facilities on campus. An anchor for the precinct, the building houses:

• a multidisciplinary simulation and medical imaging suite
• clinical studios
• a speech clinic and voice lab
• research gyms
• a thermal ergonomics laboratory
• learning studios
• large multi-disciplinary teaching spaces
• a library.

The university’s sustainability strategy focuses on leveraging its resources to boost sustainability efforts. It considers the environmental impact of its campuses and aims to inspire and support its students and staff to make a positive impact in a changing world.

We were engaged to confirm the facility’s design aligned with the university’s sustainability and design standards.

NDY conducted a detailed review of the design, held workshops with the contractor and design team and suggested improvements. We also tested methods for improving energy efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing daylight and thermal comfort. At the end of the design phase, we provided a formal peer review to verify that the project met the university’s sustainability strategy.

NDY’s collaboration with the University of Sydney not only meets design standards but also contributes positively to environmental management. It highlights the powerful combination of innovation, sustainability and educational progress, setting a strong example for future projects in education.