Deakin University, Burwood Campus, Melbourne

The robotics field is one of the fastest growing industries and Deakin University has seen a huge increase in enrolments. DS Architects were engaged to design a new facility to support the popular Robotics course. The facility accommodates 30 students in an environment that while futuristic and exciting in its appearance is still functional in its use.

Long curved benches wind through the space in contrast to typical computer benches. The serpentine form of the joinery is complimented by custom curved overhead LED lighting. Programmable lighting is incorporated into the facility so that the users can test their programming skills and affect the ambience of the facility through the lighting. Computer screens are set out so that work being done is visible to all and can be seen by people walking past the facility. A robot arena is designed into the space so that students can test out their programming live, while a dedicated workshop can be used for making modifications and repairs to the robots.