Welcome to the Macquarie College Design Lab!

Hello and welcome to the Design Lab—whether you’re a returning student or stepping into this space for the first time, we are so glad you’re here!

The Design Lab is both a maker space and a design lab, offering a dynamic environment for creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. While a maker space focuses on hands-on making and doing, our design lab emphasises the process behind creating. Here, we use the Stanford Design Thinking process to help us identify problems, generate ideas, and develop meaningful solutions.

What to Expect

You will engage in hands-on activities that build skills, encourage critical thinking, and foster innovation. Throughout your time in the lab, you will make, test, and refine products—learning by doing and growing in confidence. The space is designed to be user-friendly and inspiring, ensuring all students feel welcome.

Our Culture

This is OUR SPACE, and we are all responsible for making it a productive, respectful, and safe workplace. Treat the lab, the resources, and—most importantly—each other respectfully. We encourage collaboration, curiosity, and a growth mindset. Giving back is also a key part of our culture—whether through your time, encouragement, or resources. If you are willing to take from the lab, you should also be willing to contribute to it.

Safety First

Our number one rule: DO NOT HURT YOURSELF OR ANYONE ELSE.

• You can use all the tools and resources available, but if you haven’t been trained on a tool, stop and ask first.

• The staff and your peers are here to support you—never hesitate to seek help.

• Follow all safety guidelines to ensure a safe and productive environment for everyone.

Below, you’ll find helpful websites and resources to guide you as you explore, design, and create. We’re excited to see what you will achieve!

Welcome to the Design Lab—let’s get started!