A catalyst for drawing more residents into the city, this project is one of the first PBSA in Perth and an opportunity to spark growth in the city. We improved the client’s existing scheme through our understanding of operator models and commercial metrics, and our knowledge of how students need and want to live. Our innovative plan achieved a 40 per cent increase in yield with the same plot ratio, while prioritising the student experience with liveable accommodation and sociable resident amenities.

Resident floors are crafted to encourage connection and create a ‘tribe within the tribe.’ Each floor has a variety of room typologies to promote a diverse and inclusive living environment. Along the hallways are recessed entries to pairs of rooms. These thresholds enhance the ritual of arriving home. Neighbours can personalise their small, shared space and interact through facing room doors. Communal lounges at the northern end of each floor are filled with light and enjoy uninterrupted views.

The two-storey podium with three-bay verandah is a playful, contemporary take on the building’s heritage neighbours. Arched, circular and rectangular openings puncturing the brick façade provide variation, personality and opportunities to connect with the streets. Inside, the podium has study spaces and recreation amenities. Like a hospitality venue, it’s crafted with visual and physical connections to encourage activity and community. The Long House on the rooftop provides indoor and outdoor spaces with expansive views.