A new student housing development in Sydney’s eastern suburbs is reshaping the connection between student living and community life, with the completion of Scape Kensington in Randwick.

Designed by architectural practice Plus Studio for Scape, Australia’s largest provider of student accommodation, the 19-storey building transforms a former pharmacy site within the revitalised Todman Square into a mixed-use hub for student housing, retail, commercial and civic activity.

Located within the evolving Kensington to Kingsford (KEKI) precinct, the project sits close to the University of New South Wales and the new light rail, positioning it as part of a broader effort to create a walkable, connected, mixed-use neighbourhood linking education, housing, public space and community. Scape Kensington is one of five Scape by The Living Company buildings shaping the KEKI corridor.

“From the outset, we wanted to activate every edge of the site,” says Plus Studio Director Rido Pin.

“The building bridges public and private realms – with every element of the design connecting people to each other and the city. More than a place to live, it contributes to the civic life of the neighbourhood activating streets, laneways and a plaza – a building that feels open, connected and purposeful,” he explains.

Architecturally, a brick podium grounds the building, with the lower levels housing retail and communal spaces that spill into a newly created public plaza, while the sculptural tower above introduces a scalloped facade that establishes a vertical rhythm along the skyline. A landscaped green spine runs from street level to the rooftop gardens, connecting architecture and environment while framing views towards Randwick Racecourse, the city and Botany Bay.

Image: Tom Roe

At street level, the building opens generously to its surroundings. A multipurpose council community hall and public laneways encourage activity throughout the day. The plaza is anchored by Totemic, a public artwork by Kamilaroi artist Reko Rennie, bringing a First Nations perspective to the precinct.

Image: Ben Guthrie

Inside, the building provides 308 student apartments in a mix of studio and two-bedroom layouts. Shared kitchens, study areas and rooftop spaces have been designed to support both social interaction and quiet study, with an emphasis on wellbeing and a sense of belonging.

"As the KEKI precinct continues to grow, Scape Kensington has been guided by a human-centred approach, creating purposeful spaces that foster belonging and bring residents together as they grow, learn and find their place in the city,” says Scape CEO Anouk Darling.

Sustainability was also a key focus of the project to build on student experience through enhanced environmental performance and help create a more liveable space. The fully electric building achieves a 6 Star Green Star Design and As Built v1.3 certification, incorporating natural ventilation, biophilic design principles and energy-efficient systems.

Delivered by Infinity Constructions, Scape Kensington marks the fourth completed collaboration between Plus Studio and Scape.

Main image: Photo by Tom Roe

All images supplied

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