Greater Curtin Project Update
04 Feb 2019
Taylor Burrell Barnett, in collaboration with Christou Design, John Wardle Architects, Nettleton Tribe and Six Degrees, was commissioned to progress the necessary planning approvals for four development sites within Greater Curtin Stage One comprising 900 new student accommodation rooms, a hotel and serviced apartments, in addition to commercial, retail and education space.
Greater Curtin Stage One will form a dynamic hub for knowledge sharing, residential, hotel and retail within the existing campus environment. Stage One will integrate Curtin’s best educational and research offerings with an enviable urban lifestyle, in a sustainable place where everything is available and connected.
In December 2018, the Metropolitan Central Joint Development Assessment Panel (JDAP) granted approval of the four sites with a construction value estimated at $500 million. Securing development approval was regarded as a significant milestone for the Greater Curtin project under what can be regarded as a highly complex planning framework involving the Town of Victoria Park, WAPC, JDAP and Curtin University. A process of active engagement and collaboration by the team from the outset, ensured a streamlined approvals process.
Implementing development approval will realise Curtin University’s long held vision to deliver an innovative mixed-use precinct that allows the Curtin community – be they staff, researchers, students, community members or employees from a variety of industries – the opportunity to learn, live, work and play in a sustainable place where knowledge and innovation extend beyond buildings in a globally competitive knowledge environment.
TBB’s detailed understanding of the Curtin Master Plan and planning framework and extensive experience with projects in an existing urban environment, including applications on reserved land, and representation and involvement on Design Review Panels and JDAPs has been pivotal to the project’s success to date. Having prepared the Greater Curtin Stage One Design Guidelines, TBB also has an intricate understanding of the detailed planning control instruments and was able to provide technical feedback on concepts throughout the design formulation stage prior to lodgement.
With growing demand for student accommodation facilities across Perth, TBB has an appreciation for the project specific information and considerations to meet this
current trend in the market. Critical to supporting the long term viability of this form of development is the understanding of whole of campus engagement and collaboration, showcasing creative thinking and innovation and supporting strategic, teaching and research objectives. Shifting away from the traditional university
model and creating an outcome which is globally recognisable, innovative and creates a sense of identify will be critical to the success of vibrant communities.
The first building within the Stage One precinct to commence construction is the School of Design and Built Environment with completion Curtin University F03 – College & Outdoor Common Room planned for the start of the 2021 academic year.