The Sydney Nanoscience Hub is a world-leading research and teaching facility designed to meet the demanding requirements of Nanoscience research. This new building is particularly complex, with the design required to allow for precision instruments in highly controlled environments. The facility includes a large (750m2) clean room ISO Class 5 and 7 facility, two lecture theatres, seminar rooms and teaching labs.
Challenges included dealing with multiple and diverse user groups during the design phase, and complying with strict requirements for vibration and Electro Magnetic Interference and the interaction with adjoining occupied buildings during the construction phase. 
Solutions included extremely thick structures, rooms lined with multiple layers of fully welded aluminum to provide the necessary EMI shielding, glass fibre reinforcement in key areas, steel-shielded sub mains throughout the building and a cooperative approach with university neighbours. 
The project was well finished, with particular attention to the highly technical detailing required to achieve the specified performance criteria. Other features included a unique glass facade with an extensive ‘Frit’ pattern as well as a green roof area, which, apart from the aesthetics, prevents interference from foot traffic above the sensitive equipment areas.