Supercharging NSW’s Translational Health Science Capability

HDR has designed Australia’s first-of-its-kind Viral Vector Manufacturing Facility (VVMF) at the Westmead Health & Innovation District, marking a major milestone in Australia’s capacity to produce clinical-grade viral vectors for gene and cell therapies, vaccines, and advanced medical treatments.

Delivered by Health Infrastructure on behalf of the NSW Government, the 2,500-square-metre commercial-scale facility — an expansion of an existing pilot facility — will accelerate the “bench-to-bedside” translation of scientific discovery into treatments for genetic diseases, cancers, and viral infections. 

A Design that Harmonizes Precision and Well-Being 

The design harmonizes the high-precision technical demands of biomedical research with user-centred, well-being-focused workspaces. By translating complex operational requirements into clear, functional, and high-performing outcomes, the facility emerges as a world-class biomedical hub — a symbol of hope for patients and a global attractor of talent.

The manufacturing suite occupies the existing lower-ground shell of Westmead’s Innovation Centre, while the facility’s support spaces are housed in a rooftop extension of the Kids Research Institute. Wrapped in perforated white mesh, the extension creates a legible and visually compelling presence.

As a singular entity, it transforms a highly complex brief into a form that brings simplicity and coherence to the precinct. It stands as a civic landmark, creating a sense of pride and belonging for those who inhabit, engage with, and move through it.

Elevating Function, Fostering Collaboration

From the outset, the project team’s aim was to create a facility that meets the rigorous technical requirements of viral vector manufacturing while inspiring those who work within it and contributing positively to the public domain.

Every material and spatial decision was considered to elevate the facility beyond its operational function and foster well-being and collaboration.

The building’s identity is crafted to be read from multiple vantage points, from ground level to surrounding rooftops. Rather than appearing monolithic, it is fragmented and layered, allowing interpretation at both micro and macro scales. The design brings natural light into typically enclosed lab spaces, providing researchers with access to daylight — an intentional shift away from the traditional, windowless “bunker” environment lab technicians often work in.

Leaders in Biomedical Innovation 

Purpose-built for collaboration, flexibility, and adaptability, the facility unites the innovation ecosystem under one roof, enabling knowledge transfer at an unprecedented scale and positioning Australia as a leader in vaccine production and biomedical innovation across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.