The University of Western Australia has worked with contractor Probuild and architect HASSELL to build around 500 self-contained studio and one-bedroom apartments and facilities at University Hall (formerly Currie Hall) on Winthrop Avenue, Crawley.

This exciting development is aligned with the University’s vision to provide high quality, accessible and affordable accommodation close to campus and comprises of three new buildings:

• a northern building providing one bedroom apartments with views to Kings Park; and
• a central building and;
• a southern building providing studio apartments.

Student amenities

Featuring a modern fit out, the design will rejuvenate and complement the existing buildings and provide students with new amenities close to campus including:

• fully equipped games and media rooms
• modern kitchen, dining and laundry facilities
• new central courtyard and recreation spaces
• café and alfresco areas.

Creating and enhancing the landscape

Delivering a high quality landscape is a priority for the new student accommodation development.

Underpinned by the University in a Park theme the landscaping is designed to:

• extend the landscape heritage of the University and;
• create an environment that encourages a high quality student experience.

The design:

• includes more than 8,000 carefully selected trees, shrubs and plants;
• provides for active and passive recreation spaces;
• encourages student interaction; and
• strengthens connections to the Crawley Campus and other residential colleges.

Sustainability, accessibility and transport

The design and building contract is aimed at targeting principles associated with sustainability, universal accessibility and alternative transport options.

The development provides improved access for people with a disability and better linkages to public transport services.

The development will include 182 car parking bays on site as well as secure bicycle storage for up to 200 bicycles. Overall, more student accommodation on campus will help reduce the volume of vehicle traffic travelling to and from the University, and its associated impacts.