ARMF (Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility)

Hassell’s design for the Advanced Manufacturing Readiness Facility (AMRF) aims to reveal some of the advanced manufacturing processes taking place, creating an engaging environment where the public can connect with the facility without compromising its functionality. A central spine will always be open to the public, and is designed with the potential to host large events. The use of timber curtain walls and continuous glazing enhances this function, allowing for seamless interaction between the interior and exterior spaces.

The timber curtain walls offer a natural, inviting aesthetic that connects the building to its environment, while the expansive glazing provides transparency, offering views into the manufacturing processes and creating a sense of openness. This combination not only fosters engagement with the public but also allows for abundant natural light, making the space both welcoming and dynamic. The internal mullions and transoms are made from Tasbeam 15, while the capping is constructed from H3 Tas Oak.

Located in Bradfield City, the AMRF serves as an innovative hub offering shared access to cutting-edge technology, expert knowledge, training, and valuable networks. The facility is designed to help businesses accelerate growth, reduce risks, and enhance global competitiveness, contributing to the strength of the NSW economy.

The building is designed for flexibility and future adaptability, with a timber structure constructed using prefabricated modular components mechanically fixed together “like a kit of parts.” The use of Glue-Laminated Timber (GLT) plays a key role in achieving this design outcome, providing structural strength while enabling larger spans and intricate shapes that enhance the building’s architectural aesthetics.

The extensive use of timber, including CLT and GLT beams, not only adds visual appeal but also contributes to the project’s sustainability by reducing its overall embodied carbon emissions. Additionally, the timber structure is designed for disassembly or relocation, further minimizing its environmental impact.

The building’s columns were thoughtfully designed to reflect the surrounding clusters of trees, while the “canopy” roof collects rainwater, fostering a lush landscape of local species and water features that symbolize the “meandering and ephemeral water of the Cumberland Plain.”

The architectural design is characterized by soft, flowing lines, with no sharp edges—an intentional reflection of the space being a women’s place, embracing the themes of water and fluidity. Curved GLT beams and large glass elements are integral to this aesthetic, contributing to the smooth, organic shapes of the structure. The use of GLT curves enhances the soft edges of the design, while the glass facades bring transparency and light, creating a harmonious balance between the building and its environment. The facility will later be given a Dharug name, further connecting it to the local heritage.