Newcastle University engaged ARCH to provide a feasibility analysis for a city centre site to establish a dynamic integrated urban campus. This feasibility concept masterplan: addressed student expectations of a modern and cosmopolitan university and;  assisted the university in obtaining funding for the overall project through the Education Investment Fund.

The key aspiration for the university was that the campus be closely integrated with the community, business and commerce, and aligned with the City’s cultural and educational vision for the CBD. The EIF application was successful and as a result the University procured the NewSpace building.

The concept masterplan outlined the preliminary design objectives for the City Campus. The design overview provided a clear and logical synthesis of the site constraints with two possible site outcomes: a conforming solution and an alternative urban design solution.

Both solutions offered significant benefits to the renewal and growth of inner city Newcastle. NewSpace follows the principal of the urban design solution outcome.