Kensington, The Switch.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The Switch in Kensington, is a purpose-built student accommodation facility designed to provide modern, high-quality accommodation for students attending the University of New South Wales (UNSW).

Delivered by Decode under a D&C contract, every element of the project was tailored to enrich the life of students with state of the art facilities and finishes. The finished project includes the construction of a four-level student accommodation facility with 259 beds, offering a mix of single studio rooms, twin shares, and cluster accommodation with shared living areas. The development included a range of communal spaces designed to foster a sense of community, including:

• Collaborative study areas and meeting spaces
• Recreational lounge rooms and games areas
• A gym, outdoor terrace, and barbecue space
• Basement parking and communal kitchens and laundry facilities

The project also involved the preservation and restoration of two heritage-listed Victorian terraces at 10 and 12 Doncaster Avenue. These terraces were retained and integrated into the modern design, blending historical architecture with contemporary living spaces. The façade of the new building was designed to complement the heritage elements, using white masonry and architectural face brick to create a cohesive aesthetic.

A unique project in many aspects including its heritage & indigenous elements, 5 star Greenstar rating and the extensive rectification works that were needed when Decode was brought on as a rescue builder. The many unique challenges overcome by the project team led to their recognition as winners at the Australian Institute of Building 2025 Professional Excellence Awards.

• Location

  Kensington

• Completion

  Completed

• Value

  $35M