Owner and developer Cedar Pacific has topped out at its new purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Auckland, New Zealand. The development’s topping out marks a significant milestone in the project’s timeline – the completion of the primary structural framework of this project.
The scheme is set to comprise 758-beds over 18-storeys. Situated at 66-72 Lorne Street, it blends heritage preservation and cutting-edge prefabrication technology with sustainability principles to redefine the future of student living within Auckland’s CBD.
Designed by architectural practice Ashton Mitchell, the development, which began in May 2023, involves a team led by Cedar Pacific, managed by McConnell Property, with the main contractor being Icon Construction. On completion by October 2025, the property will be managed by UniLodge New Zealand.
“As we celebrate this milestone with the project team, we look forward to the project breathing new life into a historic site while paving the way for a sustainable and vibrant future for Auckland’s students.”
Statement, Ashton Mitchell
The scheme has been designed to achieve a Greenstar 5-star standard, ensuring high-quality living conditions for residents, with ample communal amenity areas.
At the heart of the development lies the 1929 heritage-listed Campbell House, an example of Art Deco design, whose facade is being carefully restored to preserve its historic character.
The facade will serve as the gateway to a series of vibrant social spaces on the lower levels, featuring retail outlets, a café and student amenities, with modern student apartments rising above. The new accommodation tower features integration of prefabricated bathroom pods and an innovative modular façade system, allowing for rapid construction progress.
With its proximity to the University of Auckland and AUT, the PBSA building is poised to enhance the urban landscape while addressing the growing demand for student housing within Auckland.
