Michael Kirby Building Macquarie University

The 8,600 square metre Michael Kirby Building at Macquarie University, Sydney, is a state-of-the-art facility named in honour of The Honourable Dr Michael Kirby AC CMG, a renowned human rights lawyer, High Court Justice, and international jurist.

The Law School building redevelopment was targeted at a Law School Hub, which aimed to bring industry and the professions to Macquarie University, providing appropriate accommodation to users, to support external engagement including Designed by Hassell, with engineering by TTW and construction by FDC, the building reflects the University’s commitment to excellence, collaboration, and positive societal change.

This award-winning project blends adaptive reuse with sustainable design and mass timber engineering. The use of European timber for three new floors allowed the original 1985 concrete first floor to be retained, reducing waste and minimising the overall environmental footprint of the project. The lightweight strength of the European Timber meant less concrete strengthening was needed.

Designed by Hassell, with engineering by TTW and construction by FDC, the building reflects the University’s commitment to excellence, collaboration, and positive societal change.

This award-winning project blends adaptive reuse with sustainable design and mass timber engineering. The use of European timber for three new floors allowed the original 1985 concrete first floor to be retained, reducing waste and minimising the overall environmental footprint of the project. The lightweight strength of the European Timber meant less concrete strengthening was needed. The project was delivered on a substantially shorter timeline, with fewer people involved, lower overheads, and fewer health and safety issues during construction—thanks to the efficiency of the mass timber system. Rubner, Theca Timber’s European partner, was contracted by FDC to bring the design to a 'for construction' level of detail (LOD) and supply the entire glue-laminated timber (GLT) structure, while KLH Massivholz was contracted to supply the cross-laminated timber (CLT). Theca Timber ensuring seamless coordination between all parties for the quick and efficient completion of the structure. This collaboration helped streamline the process and aligning with the high-end finishes required for the project. A standout feature is the naturally ventilated, top-lit atrium, which transforms the former courtyard into an open, interconnected space that fosters wellbeing, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas. “We hope this new space inspires, energises, and excites our students and scholars to be part of the future of the arts, humanities, and social sciences.” Professor Chris Dixon, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Macquarie University spaces, collaboration spaces and event spaces. The lifecycle upgrade and expansion will provide flexibility for workplace, research and teaching as well as allowing adaptability to allow for future change. The building has been designed to meet 5-Stars Green Star certification. The central atrium area was designed be enclosed to create a public space offering a unique experience. The upgrade included the creation of a Moot Court room too, enabling the MQ Law Scool to continue its traditional competitive rivalries with other law schools. Rubner, Theca Timber Partner, was contracted directly by FDC, the General Contractor, to bring the design to a “for construction” level and to supply the entire glulam structure, while KLH Massivoholz, has supplied the CLT. Theca Timber has cooperated with both to ensure that a seamless service is provided to FDC for a quick erection, in line with the high-end finishes required in the job.