In summary

  • Swinburne has launched its new 24-hour Latelab and student hub at the Hawthorn campus
  • The student-focused space was co-created with students to deliver a study space that meets the diverse needs of current and future cohorts
  • The space was designed with a sustainable mindset, built to last, and designed with care

Swinburne University of Technology has officially launched its reimagined Latelab and student hub at our Hawthorn campus.

Over the past two years, students and staff have collaborated with design professionals to create a dynamic, student-centred space in the heart of Swinburne’s Hawthorn campus. The doors opened to students Monday 17 March, with a formal celebration on Tuesday 8 April.

Celebrating the Latelab

Swinburne Vice-Chancellor, Pascale Quester, officially cut the ribbon to mark the grand opening of the new Latelab and student hub. Staff, students and partners came together to celebrate this exciting new chapter for Swinburne, recognising the hard work and collaboration that brought the space to life. After the formalities, the fun kicked off with food trucks, live performances, and a jazz trio, creating a buzzing atmosphere as students explored their new 24/7 study and social hub.

“The Latelab and student hub is more than just a place to study — it’s a vibrant space designed to inspire connection, collaboration, and productivity,” said Director Student Experience, Ian Thomson.

“By fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, the Latelab strengthens our student community, encouraging innovation and shared learning experiences. We’re excited about the opportunities this new space creates, empowering both current and future students to thrive in their academic journey,” he said. 

  • Server giving a student a small pizza on a napkin.
    Students receiving free food at the Latelab launch
  • Man wearing a suit and glasses laughs with surrounding executives outside.
    Swinburne executives joined the Vice-Chancellor in celebrating the milestone.
  • Server putting sauce on a student's tacos.
    There was lots of food for the students to choose from.
  • A female Swinburne executive addressing a crowd at a lecturn outside a building.
    Vice-Chancellor Pascale Quester opening the Latelab with an address.
  • Latelab florescent sign, unlit with pidgeon sitting above.
    Welcome to the Latelab and student hub.

Student inspired, student approved

Through a series of workshops, Swinburne actively sought student feedback to design the most effective study and learning environments. The result is a highly functional and flexible space that prioritises the needs of both vocational and higher education students.

The Latelab and student hub provides a variety of study environments, from open study benches found on all four levels, to bookable group study rooms equipped with large screens for seamless collaboration. Recognising students’ varied schedules, the Latelab is open 24/7, providing a secure space for late-night study sessions, group work and creative brainstorming. In response to student requests, large windows and balconies invite natural light into the space.

In addition to co-creating with current students, the new Latelab incorporated the expertise of Swinburne alumni. The Latelab’s state-of-the-art lighting was designed by Swinburne Alum, Kieran Lewis, highlighting the talent and innovation of Swinburne graduates.  

Welcome to the Swinburne Latelab
View transcript [166KB PDF]

Where sustainability and innovation unite

Aligned with Swinburne’s commitment to being carbon neutral by 2025, the Latelab’s redesign placed a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility throughout the planning and construction stages. Swinburne utilised the Green Star framework to meet the equivalent of a five-star rating and runs on 100 per cent renewable energy. 

“As an adaptive reuse project, sustainability, accessibility and inclusion were core priorities – for both us and our students,” said Swinburne’s Chief Operating Officer Nancy Collins.

“Through the co-creation process, students expressed the importance of reducing resource consumption, minimising waste, and fostering a healthy, sustainable environment. The result is a collaborative, student-informed space that the enhances student experience,” she said.

Thank you to all of the designers and developers at Kosloff Architecture, arete and TSA Riley, as well as all Swinburne staff and students for their hard work to make this project a reality. 

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