Constructed for the Burnie City Council on a greenfields foreshore site, the Makers Workshop complex is designed to showcase Burnie's industrial heritage, with a particular focus on the mining and paper-making industries. The new structure represents a major investment in the future of the north-west Tasmanian port city.

The building is a modern, one-off design which has already attracted a great deal of attention. The complex consists of five main wings including a multi-purpose wing which houses interactive displays and 'recycled' port containers. There is also a fully licensed café wing providing indoor and outdoor dining with panoramic views across the water front and town centre.

The central core is home to numerous display pieces including the first underground mining machine built by local businessman, Dale Elphinstone. The 28 tonne machine takes pride of place at the front entrance to the complex and is housed behind a full height glass wall.