Urbanisation
Iglu Mascot: Student Accommodation
RPS’ award-winning Landscape Architecture team was engaged by Iglu to design an immersive landscape to create a modern, student-friendly accommodation in the bustling area of Mascot, Sydney.
Designing an immersive landscape in a restricted space
Iglu Mascot is state-of-the-art student accommodation located in Mascot, Sydney. Iglu, a leading provider of student housing solutions, aimed to create a vibrant student accommodation with lush green spaces. The project spanned multiple levels, presenting unique design and development challenges that required innovative solutions.
RPS’ Landscape Architecture team worked closely with Bates Smart Architects on Stage 1 of the project, developing the landscape master plan, detailed design, and construction delivery. The primary challenge for RPS was to design an immersive and functional landscape within a restricted and fragmented floor plate spread across multiple levels. The complexity of the site required a creative approach to ensure that the space met the needs of students while maximising the use of available areas.
Creative spatial layout and strategic use of space
To overcome the spatial challenges presented by the site, our Landscape Architecture team designed a layout that prioritised the needs of students. The solution involved creating a variety of breakout and shared spaces to encourage community interaction and provide flexible areas for study and leisure. The ‘sky garden’ with stunning views included study nooks, sun lawns for lounging, and a sheltered outdoor kitchen. High-intensity areas like BBQ precincts and sports courts were strategically placed on the rooftop to ensure privacy, while high-amenity passive spaces were reserved for the ground level. This design approach maximised the utility of the available space and enhanced the student experience.
The innovative design provided several benefits:
• Privacy and engagement: by placing high-intensity activities on the rooftop, students could enjoy privacy while still having access to vibrant communal spaces on the ground level.
• Variety of spaces: The mix of breakout and shared use spaces catered to diverse student needs, enhancing their living experience.
• Efficient space utilisation: The thoughtful layout optimised space usage across the development.
Successful project milestones and future enhancements
The Iglu Mascot project has seen significant milestones:
• Stage 1: Successfully completed, laying the foundation for the innovative landscape design. The design provides the student accommodation with an abundance of communal landscaped open spaces to enhance the social experience of students. Three student buildings overlook a lush central courtyard surrounded by abundant plants and two rooftop terraces designed to promote a strong sense of community.
• Stage 2: Currently in the development application stage, focusing on further enhancing the spatial layout and integrating additional amenities, including a cafe spill out space.
To discuss how RPS can support your project, contact Steven Holmes or Andrew Galt.
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Meet the team
Steven Holmes
Practice Leader - Landscape Architecture, Sydney
Andrew Galt
Service Line Leader - Landscape Architecture