A Closer Look into Scape Kingsford

The Scape Kingsford project began with a vision to set a new benchmark for quality student accommodation in the bustling heart of Kingsford. This development was not just about constructing a building; it was about revitalising the Kingsford neighbourhood and enhancing the community’s amenities.

The journey started with the design and construction of an 18-storey mixed-use student accommodation building. This impressive structure would house 354 rooms including studio, one- and two bedrooms apartments, communal dining and lounge areas, a games lounge, and private study pods. Additionally, the property features a rooftop terrace complete with a BBQ area, three retail spaces, and basement parking for 16 cars, 100 motorcycles, and 96 bicycles. The project also included extensive landscaping in communal and public areas within the retail precinct, aligning with the Council’s revitalisation strategy.

One of the challenges faced during the project was traffic management. The site was located at a busy intersection with buses, light rail, and commuter traffic. Meticulous planning was required to ensure the safety of site workers, pedestrians, and traffic. The planning of deliveries also required careful consideration due to the projects ‘boundary to boundary’ nature.  Additionally, the basement was redesigned to find efficiencies in the limited space provided to ensure all essential services and parking spaces could be maintained.

Throughout the project, Scape and Taylor demonstrated a strong commitment to reconciliation. In August 2022, a smoking ceremony and sod turning event was held to cleanse and protect the building site, showing respect to Elders past and present. Additionally, Taylor committed to a minimum spend of 1.5% of the overall project value on Aboriginal participation in construction and achieved over 2%.

The project’s target is to achieve a 5 Star Green Star v1.3 rating, incorporating several environmentally sustainable design and construction initiatives. These included solar panels, recycled steel, fly ash, an OSD tank, recycled timber, reduced plastics, provision for an innovative garbage disposal system, and extensive end-of-trip facilities, including 96 bicycle racks and an associated bicycle maintenance station.

Several initiatives took place on-site, adding to the project’s rich narrative. The Taylor team celebrated Harmony Day 2023 by coming together to share food from different cultural backgrounds, fostering a safe and inclusive workplace. The topping out ceremony marked the completion of the project’s highest structural point, with a tree placed on top of the building as a symbol of good luck for future occupants.

Scape Kingsford is designed to be more than just accommodation; it’s a dynamic community where students can thrive. Nestled near UNSW and NIDA, and conveniently close to Sydney’s beautiful eastern suburbs beaches and the light rail to the CBD, Scape Kingsford offers top quality student accommodation that combines comfort with cutting-edge design. Students benefit from round-the-clock security and support, all-inclusive utilities, and a vibrant events programme that keeps the community engaged.

View more of Scape Kingsford here.