First development marks the start of Curtin’s new Exchange precinct

The $110 million new home of Curtin University’s School of Design and the Built Environment will be the first development within Curtin’s new industry-connected innovation precinct, Exchange.

The contract to deliver the specialist learning and teaching facility designed by John Wardle Architects has been awarded to Lendlease, with construction expected to start this quarter.

The new building includes technology-driven collaborative learning spaces, open-plan workspaces and a dynamic ground floor featuring a central courtyard and exhibition and retail space. Integrated spaces totalling 2,500sqm have also been allocated to industry and will be available for lease by complementary commercial tenants.

Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Terry said the new facility, located in the heart of Exchange, represented an exciting new paradigm for learning, teaching and industry as the first concentrated stage of development to be delivered in response to the Greater Curtin Master Plan.

“Curtin’s new industry-connected precinct called Exchange reflects the University’s vision to serve as a catalyst for innovation by creating a hub that encompasses public spaces, commercial offices, speciality retail shops, new student accommodation, residential apartments, a boutique hotel, our new bus interchange at Curtin Central, and food and beverage outlets,” Professor Terry said.

“The new home of Curtin’s School of Design and the Built Environment sets a sophisticated, forward-looking and sustainable tone as the first major development for Exchange, which has a development value of $500 million for stage one.”

Mr Chris Learmonth, General Manager of Lendlease’s Western Australian Building business, said Lendlease was thrilled to partner with Curtin to deliver the building, which was due for completion within two years.

“This modern learning and teaching facility will play a critical role in bringing to life the University’s vision to become the epicentre of research and innovation in Western Australia,” Mr Learmonth said.

Professor Terry said Curtin was also in the final stages of negotiation for the delivery and operation of the remaining development within stage one of the precinct.

Exchange forms a dynamic extension of the University’s academic core with the neighbouring Curtin Medical School and sport and recreation hub, home to Curtin Stadium and Hockey WA.

Exchange achieved a major milestone in late 2018 when all development for stage one was approved by the Joint Development Assessment Panel (JDAP).

For more information about Exchange, visit here.