A new era for the CBD: Maven x Rook aims to reactivate Canberra’s commercial core

With a housing supply dominated by high-density living, Canberra’s appetite for new apartment developments remains incredibly strong. Ongoing demand is driven by a diverse mix of buyers: those looking to enter the property market, downsizers seeking a walkable lifestyle, and investors drawn to the capital’s reliable rental returns.

All those stars line up nicely for two new residential towers set to rise in the CBD on the corner of University Avenue and Marcus Clarke Street.

The dual‑building Maven x Rook development will bring 155 apartments and street-level commercial units to market at an estimated cost of $100 million.The residential towers will include commercial tenancies fronting University Avenue, joined by a landscaped plaza level featuring several retail kiosks.

Syzygy is the developer behind the new offerings. This privately owned Australian company focuses on opportunities to create “something a bit different”.

Director Nik Bulum is widely regarded as the visionary behind the reinvention of Braddon as an inner-city lifestyle destination through his game-changing mixed-use developments, Paiko, Ori, Yamma Voshi and Branx.

He believes Maven x Rook will play a major role in activating the Marcus Clark Street boundary of the city.

“That side has been dominated by commercial buildings that are essentially 9am-5pm – after that, it’s largely deserted,” he says.

“This site is a great opportunity to bring more life into the precinct and to see it buzzing late into the evening, seven days a week.”

The two new towers will have their own distinct identities. Maven is inspired by its proximity to the Australian National University and to commercial law offices and the courts. A maven is an expert who knows their subject inside out.

Rook draws its identity from the history of chess, and that theme continues throughout the building in its interior branding and styling.

Bulum says Maven is designed to offer a “sophisticated yet relaxed lifestyle” while Rook leans more into the “your home is your castle” theme.

“Rook has been envisioned to offer more opportunities in interior branding and bespoke options,” he says.

“But they will both appeal equally to a wide range of demographics, including first-home buyers, professionals, downsizers and investors.”

The floor plans will deliver one to three-bedroom apartments from 50 to 300 square metres in size. Balconies will range from eight to 27 square metres, with many enjoying views toward Black Mountain Tower or Lake Burley Griffin.

Each of the commercial tenancies will front onto University Avenue or Marcus Clarke Street, joined by a landscaped plaza level featuring several retail kiosks. The two buildings will share five basement levels with 223 parking bays.

Syzygy senior development manager Nick Merriman says the firm has shortlisted a number of well-known quality builders, with construction set to begin early next year and completion expected by late 2028.

“Maven will comprise 89 north‑facing apartments designed to maximise natural light and city views,” he says.

“Residents will have access to a rooftop terrace with amenities. There’s also a residents-only club lounge with bookable spaces.”

Merriman says the apartment interiors will be light-filled and feature natural timber flooring, floor-to-ceiling glazing and brand-name appliances.

“They will offer amazing liveability, outstanding views and all the benefits of a walkable neighbourhood,” he says.

Rook will provide a more boutique experience, with 66 apartments – many also positioned to capture iconic Canberra views.

Merriman says they are characterised by deep design thinking, with bespoke identities that begin on level 10.

“There are four levels that are branded knight, bishop, queen and king,” he says. “They offer unique floor plans and inclusions that ensure no two apartments are the same.”

Above those are two two-storey penthouses, or “sky homes”, that will be fully customisable and range from 200-300 square metres in size.

“These are on the ‘checkmate’ level,” Merriman says. “That’s what we might call a winning move.”

Maven x Rook at a glance

Canberra city

21 University Avenue

Developer: Syzygy

Price: $599,000-$2,990,900

Agent: Matt Nicholls 0407 328 269 (Maven) and Oumaya Escribe 0432 341 179 (Rook)

EER: Average 7

Completion: Late 2028

What we love: The Rook development offers bespoke identities, ensuring no two apartments are the same.

From the developer: “Maven x Rook will appeal to a wide range of demographics, including first-home buyers, professionals, downsizers and investors. Head down to our sales apartment to discover your dream apartment, now open.”