CDIO project, which is an initiative that aims to develop a new model for engineering education, was discussed. A prominent attribute of the CDIO initiative has been the design and implementation of a new class of student workspaces that enable students to design, build and test project-based courses. A large number of factors were considered for the proper set-up of a student workspace that supports design-build-test education experiences. The factors are ownership, functionality, staff competence, costs, safety, security and sustainability.