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Boutique developer <a href="/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> is pushing ahead with its Balfe Park Lane project in <a href="/new-apartments/brunswick-east-vic-3057">Brunswick East</a>. <a href="/news/antipodean-style-another-design-sensitive-apartment-project-for-brunswick-east">First covered on Urban.com.au in late June</a>, Balfe Park Lane comprises an ensemble of four interconnected apartment buildings designed by<a href="/architects/kerstin-thompson-architects"> Kerstin Thompson Architects</a> (KTA), located between Nicholson Street and Balfe Park. 

KTA has designed Balfe Park Lane to provide a unique offering which promotes design excellence, high quality resident amenity and sustainable living. Capitalising on its 60m park frontage and three acres of adjacent public open space, the Balfe Park Lane provides the Aussie Dream of a big backyard but with an inner-city twist. Balfe Park Lane features nine townhouses and a mix of two, three and four bedroom apartments with dual aspects and allowing for natural cross-flow ventilation and an abundance of natural light.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/77-83_nicholson_st_v08_balfe_park_elevation_final_2k_20180924_0000.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The development includes 60m of park frontage. Image: Local Peoples"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/77-83_nicholson_st_v08_balfe_park_elevation_final_2k_20180924_0000.jpg?itok=RRQ5pnC1" title="The development includes 60m of park frontage. Image: Local Peoples" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The development includes 60m of park frontage. Image: Local Peoples</figcaption></figure>Antipodean's aspirations for the site were to deliver a socially and environmentally sustainable development which enhanced and benefited the local community. This aligned closely with KTA's own aspirations and together they fulfilled this goal via the inclusion of a public laneway linking Nicholson Street to Balfe Park.

According to the architects, the development highlights how multi-residential design should consider the requirements of residents as well as the surrounding neighbourhood to create buildings with lasting appeal. Drawing on the industrial fabric of the surrounding context, Balfe Park Lane’s facade and materiality deliver a contemporary response to Brunswick East’s architectural vernacular of brickwork and concrete.The interiors are characterised by whitewash timber-lined ceilings which provide thermal and acoustic benefits and creating a sense of warmth.

A collection of retail tenancies that respond to Brunswick East's eclectic mix of retail and hospitality offerings, will be located on the ground level providing active frontages to the public realm. A communal courtyard and rooftop garden complement the adjacent recreational park space on offer at Balfe Park.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/77-83_nicholson_st_v09_roof_terrace_final_2k_20180924_00001.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Balfe Parke Lane provides residents with a number of communal areas including a rooftop garden. Image: Local Peoples"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/77-83_nicholson_st_v09_roof_terrace_final_2k_20180924_00001.jpg?itok=KR432j6m" title="Balfe Parke Lane provides residents with a number of communal areas including a rooftop garden. Image: Local Peoples" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Balfe Parke Lane provides residents with a number of communal areas including a rooftop garden. Image: Local Peoples</figcaption></figure>Sustainability was also pivotal to the design of Balfe Park Lane with the inclusion of solar PVs, rainwater harvesting, rooftop composting, vegetable gardens, electric vehicle charging stations and ample bicycle amenities.  Design features such as operable shades and windows, and ceiling fans provide passive sustainable design methods for thermal comfort.

Antipodean hopes that the thoughtful design will make an enduring local impact, contributing meaningfully to the already strong sense of community in the area.

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
The design of Balfe Park Lane as an ensemble of buildings of varying shape and orientation rather than a large, single building means that there is a stronger sense of neighbourhood and an individual address within a broader social context

Four individual structures also means we have more opportunities to give each dwelling the benefit of windows that welcome in light, ventilation and views. In a market that often values lavish fixtures and fittings, we believe real luxury lies in creating a beautiful framework – providing ‘good bones’ - that will endure and give lasting pleasure to occupants.

- Kerstin Thompson, Founding Principal @ KTA
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
It’s a rare opportunity to enjoy a lifestyle that combines the best of inner-city living with all the benefits of a large garden at your front door.

 Brunswick East is calling out for a new and innovative approach to multi-residential living that cleverly integrates our need for greenery within an inner-city locale. The amenities on offer at this development are unparalleled in the neighbourhood.

- Dominic Ziino, Managing Agent, Castran
</blockquote>
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Laurence Dragomir

Balfe Park Lane adds to KTA's growing housing portfolio

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The City of Melbourne - via its Future (Planning) Committee - has thrown its support behind a development proposal at 407-415 King Street in West Melbourne, albeit with a caveat attached to it by way of a reduction in height.

DCF Property's latest development proposal for a 19-storey tower on the current site of Flagstaff House, would include the internal demolition of the two-storey building which is covered by a heritage overlay. Completed in 1968, Flagstaff House was designed by Yuncken Freeman with the individual heritage overlay (HO842) pertaining to the exterior only. 

The approval paves the way for the construction of a 60m building accommodating 258 hotel rooms, two function spaces on the roof level and a 177 sqm restaurant located on the ground floor. The Fender Katsalidis-designed scheme replaces a previous application which was refused at VCAT in April 2017.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/flagstaff_house_previous.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Previous schemes proposed for the site"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="241" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flagstaff_house_previous.jpg?itok=GiJr9Xz9" title="Previous schemes proposed for the site" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Previous schemes proposed for the site</figcaption></figure>First submitted in May 2016, the initial proposal designed by Plus Architecture, sought approval for a 69m high mixed-use tower featuring apartments and hotel rooms. According to the City of Melbourne, 'had a failure appeal not been lodged, the application would have been refused due to significant concerns relating to heritage, built form and design matters'.

One of the key considerations VCAT cited in its verdict, was that any redevelopment of Flagstaff House must provide an appropriate design response and built form outcome. The new proposal seeks a reduced scope of demolition works than previously proposed, with the intent to retain the buttress elements and other notable features determined by VCAT.

The proposed tower is expressed as a single form, rising above and beyond Flagstaff House. The introduction of setbacks and a more proportionally appealing massing, allows Flagstaff House to 'read as a strong element therefore allowing for the real appreciation of it’s form', says the planning officer report.  Additionally, the design and materials proposed are considered 'respectful' and complement Flagstaff House's Modernist architecture. 

<blockquote>
The new tower form can, in my view, be accommodated upon the existing heritage building. The proposal now presents legibly as respecting and responding to the heritage host. The proposed design is evidently in keeping 
with and a complement to the heritage host.

As a form of a contrasting scale, of considerably greater bulk and presence than the host, the evident response to the host building should enable the new presence to be seen as following from 
the host and so to a degree as secondary to the host.

Whilst a smaller building, it is my expectation that the original building will retain a primacy of presence given the responsive composition of the new, which follows directly from that of the heritage host.

- City of Melbourne's Heritage Advisor
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/407-415_king_street_inline.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The retained Flagstaff House, incorporated into the new hotel design. Planning image: FK Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="334" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/407-415_king_street_inline.png?itok=tve4fnqr" title="The retained Flagstaff House, incorporated into the new hotel design. Planning image: FK Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The retained Flagstaff House, incorporated into the new hotel design. Planning image: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>FK are proposing a material palette which comprises clear and feature glazing, a combination of black steel paint and anodised finishes based on the existing heritage elements. A bronze metal canopy will provide a flourish of colour to the streetscape.

The City of Melbourne's Urban Design team also expressed their support for the amended design noting the additional ‘bay’ to the upper floor facades and the removal of service louvres to King and Batman Street have resulted in an improved outcome which satisfies previous feedback provided. Interestingly, the Urban Design team didn't express any concern regarding the proposed height.

Despite its general support, the City of Melbourne is seeking a reduction in height down to 53m (excluding the lift overrun) or the equivalent of two-storeys. According to planning officers, the 53m height will also ensure that 'the proposed tower steps down from the adjoining (development at Flagstaff Green) which is at a height of approximately 66m'.
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A challenging West Melbourne site finally finds favour with Council

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While other developments abutting or proposed to rise above rail corridors have faltered, developer DealCorp is pushing ahead with plans for a residential development adjacent to the recently revamped Gardiner Train Station in Glen Iris, after securing planning approval.

The $100 million development to be known as The Residences at Glenarm Square, will comprise 120 apartments and 1,000 sqm of retail and commercial space across two-storeys along with a provedore, café, and deli/grocer, which DealCorp says will add to the local community. 

DealCorp has ensured its plans for the development adhere to the local planning scheme and integrates with the station and retail plaza, providing Glen Iris with a new community heart. The new infill development will be built on 2,700 sqm of re-purposed land opposite the new Gardiner Station forecourt, created as part of its recent multi-million-dollar upgrade.

According to DealCorp, the project which has been designed by Plus Architecture, will deliver a much-needed affordable apartments to an area where the median house price is currently over $2 million.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/gardinerstation_s050_ext_glenarmsthero_final.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Residences at Glenarm Square, will be built opposite Gardiner Station. Image: DealCorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="644" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gardinerstation_s050_ext_glenarmsthero_final.jpg?itok=GnK0KAIb" title="The Residences at Glenarm Square, will be built opposite Gardiner Station. Image: DealCorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Residences at Glenarm Square, will be built opposite Gardiner Station. Image: DealCorp</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Located in the heart of Melbourne’s leafy-green inner eastern suburbs, Glen Iris is incredibly sought after and infill development opportunities are rare. As developers it is critical we look not only to delivering apartment solutions, but vibrant retail, café and leisure amenity that help create new community connections.

That’s why this project, in this location, was so appealing to us – it was an opportunity to regenerate and re-activate one of Melbourne’s most in-demand inner eastern suburbs in a specific locale where community amenity is currently lacking. As a diversified property developer we assess all opportunities on their merit so when the chance arose to deliver a project of this nature in such a significant location, we jumped at it. This project represents an innovative, collaborative approach to infill development.

With their excellent locations and proximity to transport and other established amenity, this site is a prime example of urban regeneration in a location where traditional home prices are out of reach, so we are excited to explore the way this successful test case can be applied in a wider setting in the future

- David Kobritz, DealCorp executive chairman
</blockquote>

DealCorp will launch The Residences at Glenarm Square to the market in the coming weeks with the project set to include a mix of one, two and three-bedroom offerings, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie.

Meanwhile, South Yarra will also see the development of air above the rail corridor to the south of South Yarra Station, along Toorak Road. As mentioned in Apartments.com.au's <a href="/guides/weekly-podcast-episode-31-city-of-stonnington-mayor-cr-steve-stefanopoulos">podcast with Stonnington Mayor Steve Stefanopoulos</a>, Council has approved plans for a 3-storey mixed-use retail development at 162-164 Toorak Road, which will complete the streetscape.

Designed by Bruce Henderson and backed by Vicland Property Group the development will feature 2,500 sqm of retail and office space in addition to a 1,500 sqm public plaza and connection to the South Yarra Siding Reserve, which is being expanded and upgraded as part of the Melbourne Metro Tunnel.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/162-164_toorak_rd_aerial.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The approved development at 162-164 Toorak Road. Image: realestatesource.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="395" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/162-164_toorak_rd_aerial.jpg?itok=rnpuVf9X" title="The approved development at 162-164 Toorak Road. Image: realestatesource.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The approved development at 162-164 Toorak Road. Image: realestatesource.com.au</figcaption></figure>
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DealCorp gains approval for Gardiner Station development

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<a href="http://aila.org.au/">The Australian Institute of Landscape Architects</a> (AILA) has announced the winners of the 2018 National Landscape Architecture Awards, recognising and celebrating the contributions of the 38 winners across 14 categories,to Australia’s regional and metropolitan landscapes. 

The annual awards program acknowledges the ability of landscape architects to shape cities and towns to tackle the major challenges facing Australian cities and their residents, including an ageing population, climbing obesity and diabetes rates, transport challenges and the increasing importance of positive mental health. 

The awards reflect the broad scale of projects designed by landscape architects with projects such as the Sunshine Coast’s Palmwoods Town Square awarded, through to smaller projects like the Ian Potter Children’s WILDPLAY Garden and the Darebin Yarra Trail Link.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/03-darebin-yarra-trail-link-emmacross.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Darebin Yarra Trail link by VicRoads. Image: Emma Cross"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/03-darebin-yarra-trail-link-emmacross.jpg?itok=B16sGtLb" title="Darebin Yarra Trail link by VicRoads. Image: Emma Cross" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Darebin Yarra Trail link by VicRoads. Image: Emma Cross</figcaption></figure>According to the Awards Jury, landscape architects are fundamental to the health and wellbeing of our communities, expanding their skillset to help the world deal with critical issues.

<blockquote>
The awarded projects are sensitive, thoughtful and ambitious responses to repairing and improving our Australian landscapes. This is of critical importance at a time of increasing urbanisation and climate change.

- Sara Kjaersgaard, AILA National Awards Jury Chair
</blockquote>

The awards coincided with the 2018 AILA International Festival of Landscape Architecture: The Expanding Field, which celebrates the great diversity within Landscape Architecture practice, promoting the critical role the profession has in confronting and contributing to the social and economic challenges of the coming century.

The Expanding Field Creative Directors, Taylor Cullity Lethlean (TCL), say the social and environmental challenges we face are large-scale and systemic, from climate change to growing wealth inequality and a politically volatile climate worldwide.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/01_optusstadium_peterbennetts.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Optus Stadium. Image: Peter Bennetts"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="370" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/01_optusstadium_peterbennetts.jpg?itok=9FO7yMub" title="Optus Stadium. Image: Peter Bennetts" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Optus Stadium HASSELL. Image: Peter Bennetts</figcaption></figure><h2>Winners are Grinners</h2>

Civic Landscape category

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>
	Newman Town Centre (WA) | UDLA
	</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>
	Palmwoods New Town Square (QLD) | Sunshine Coast Council
	</li>
	<li>
	Railway Square (WA) | Place Laboratory
	</li>
	<li>
	Earth Sciences Garden (VIC) | Rush Wright Associates
	</li>
</ul>
Parks and Open Space category

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>Bungarribee at Doonside (NSW) | JMD Design</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>Rockhampton Riverside (QLD) | Urbis</li>
	<li>
	Oaklands Park and Wetland (SA) | TCL
	</li>
	<li>
	Alpine Better Places Porepunkah (VIC) | MDG LAs
	</li>
</ul>
Play Spaces category

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>
	Optus Stadium Park (WA) | HASSELL
	</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>
	Mukanthi Nature Playspace (SA) | PSLA Playspaces
	</li>
	<li>
	BallamBumps (VIC)| Playce
	</li>
	<li>
	Ian Potter Children’s WILDPLAY Garden (NSW) | Aspect
	</li>
</ul>
Infrastructure category

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>
	Darebin Yarra Trail Link (VIC) | Vic Roads
	</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>Skeleton Creek Bridges (VIC) | Site Office</li>
</ul>
Cultural Heritage category

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>
	Plantbank (NSW) | 360 degrees LA
	</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>
	Point Nepean National Park MP (VIC) | TCL
	</li>
	<li>
	Railway Square (WA) | Place Laboratory
	</li>
</ul>
Land Management category

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>The Living Knowledge Stream for Curtin University (WA) | Syrinx Environmental</li>
</ul>
Tourism category

Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>
	HOTA Outdoor Stage (QLD) | CUSP
	</li>
	<li>
	Maravista (QLD) | CUSP
	</li>
</ul>
Urban Design category

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>
	Optus Stadium Park (WA) | HASSELL
	</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>
	Fish Lane (QLD) | RPS
	</li>
	<li>
	Victoria Square Kerang (VIC) | Hansen Partnership
	</li>
</ul>
Landscape Planning category

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>
	Chain of Ponds (VIC) | Site Office
	</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>Southern Parklands Vision 2036 (NSW) | Turf Design and TDEP</li>
</ul>
Research, Policy and Communications category

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>
	Green Infrastructure Planning a National Green Network (WA) | Simon Kilbane
	</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>
	Greener Places (NSW) | GANSW
	</li>
	<li>
	Monash University Civil Engineering Hydraulics Living Lab (VIC) | ASPECT Studios
	</li>
	<li>
	Interpretive Wonderings (NSW) | Interpretive Wonderings Landscape Architecture
	</li>
</ul>
Community Contribution category

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>
	Place of Healing (WA) | UDLA
	</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>Palmwoods New Town Square (QLD) | Sunshine Coast Council</li>
</ul>
Small Projects category

Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>
	Immigration Museum Activation Project (VIC) | Rush Wright Associates
	</li>
	<li>
	Valley Lake (VIC) | McGregor Coxall
	</li>
</ul>
Gardens category

Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>
	Eve Apartments (NSW) | 360 degrees LA
	</li>
	<li>
	Vic Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VIC) | Rush Wright Associates
	</li>
</ul>
International category

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>
	Temaiku Land and Urban Planning, Kiribati | Jacobs
	</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>
	Lingang Bird Airport | McGregor Coxall
	</li>
	<li>
	DaNang Railway Connectivity Improvement and Urban Redevelopment Study | Hansen Partnership
	</li>
</ul>
 

 
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Winners of the 2018 National Landscape Architecture Awards announced

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Following on from Apartments.com.au's earlier Podcasts with <a href="/guides/weekly-podcast-episode-32-the-greens-sam-hibbins-talks-all-things-transport">Greens Member for Prahran, Sam Hibbins</a> and<a href="/guides/weekly-podcast-episode-35-labors-neil-pharaoh"> Labor Candidate for Prahran, Neil Pharaoh</a>, today we complete the trifecta with Liberal Candidate for Prahran, Dr. Katie Allen. Dr. Allen and I discuss the challenges facing Melbourne and Victoria as a result of unprecedented levels of population growth and what the State Coalition's policies to tackle these issues are, should they be elected to form government on November 25.

The question of what type of city does Melbourne want to be in the future is also posed, with Dr. Allen citing the two extremes of sprawl or a decentralised medium density model - do we want to be a "State of Cities or a City State?"

<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="166" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/515404062&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=true&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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Weekly Podcast - Episode 36: Liberal for Prahran Dr. Katie Allen

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Lendlease officially opened the first stage of its $2.5b Melbourne Quarter mixed-use development this morning, with Minister for Planning Richard Wynne and Lendlease Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Steve McCann on hand to open the group’s new Victorian home at One Melbourne Quarter.

Located within the Batmans Hill precinct of Docklands, One Melbourne Quarter is home to approximately 400 Lendlease employees who have relocated from three different office locations across Melbourne. Lendlease occupies levels four to six of the 13-storey building, the first commercial tower to be delivered in the 2.5 hectare Melbourne Quarter precinct on Collins Street.

A key feature of the development is the first phase of the precinct’s elevated Sky Park, characterised by a feature sculptural spiral staircase providing access to the park from Collins Street. The second phase will be delivered as part of the future Melbourne Quarter Tower commercial development.

The concept of the Sky Park was conceived by Denton Corker Marshall and developed in collaboration with ASPECT | OCULUS to improve health and well being. Based on principles of biophilic design, the elevated park comes complete with wifi and encourages workers to work outside and connect with nature.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/2018_1melbqrtr_521_lowres.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One Melbourne Quarter is now complete. Image: Lendlease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="687" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2018_1melbqrtr_521_lowres.jpg?itok=Amuq3Xnw" title="One Melbourne Quarter is now complete. Image: Lendlease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One Melbourne Quarter is now complete. Image: Lendlease</figcaption></figure>Lendlease’s new office tenancy is based on the concept of team neighbourhoods of 15 – 20 employees. Allocated desks are eliminated and replaced with centralised team tables to promote a team based working culture and opportunities for immediate feedback, staff connectivity and collaboration. Employees are free to choose how and where they work. Each neighbourhood has a range of spaces including ‘working walls’ for visual communication, enclosed meeting pods with access to virtual technology, breakaway areas for collaboration and services such as IT help desks on each floor to support high performance.

The provision of a wellness hub reinforces the Lendlease's commitment to employee health and well being and offers discretionary nutrition options, wellness and lifestyle seminars, health checks and group training activities including yoga, pilates and bootcamp. Additional features include a dedicated event space, a high-tech immersion room, a social hub with a barista and interconnecting stairs across the three floors, promoting free movement and social connectivity.

2,500 workers will ultimately call One Melbourne Quarter home, with design and engineering firm Arup joining Lendlease in moving in, with AMP due to move in early next year. The building is targeting a 6 Star Green Star rating from the Green Building Council of Australia, a 5.5 star NABERS Energy tenancy rating and a WELL New Interiors Certification.

Meanwhile, work continues at pace on Lendlease's two construction sites within Melbourne Quarter - Two Melbourne Quarter and East Tower. Due for completion in mid-2020,  Two Melbourne Quarter will comprise 50,000 sqm of A-Grade commercial space with EnergyAustralia secured as the anchor tenant.

Melbourne Quarter has achieved a 6 Star Green Star Communities rating, showcasing world leadership in sustainability and upon completion 50 per cent of the Melbourne Quarter's development footprint will be dedicated to public open space. A central plaza and neighbourhood park designed by ASPECT | OCULUS, will join the already completed Sky Park.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/melbourne_quarter-2018.10.06sm.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Construction continues at Melbourne Quarter. SkyscraperCity user: worzil"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/melbourne_quarter-2018.10.06sm.jpg?itok=QP5WcLFP" title="Construction continues at Melbourne Quarter. SkyscraperCity user: worzil" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Construction continues at Melbourne Quarter. SkyscraperCity user: worzil</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
One Melbourne Quarter is active demonstration of Lendlease’s integrated model – delivering a workplace that is owned by a Lendlease-managed fund, built by our building business, in a precinct transformed by our urban regeneration business. Bringing our Melbourne workforce together in one central location means we’ll be more accessible to our customers while championing excellence, wellbeing and innovation.

Based on the workplace strategies implemented at our global headquarters in Barangaroo, our new Melbourne location demonstrates greener and healthier ways of working. This creates a workplace that lives and breathes a culture of collaboration and purposeful interactions, providing employees with a sense of belonging. Moving into One Melbourne Quarter cements our bricks and mortar commitment to the precinct, while demonstrating our belief in our capacity to create the best places for our employees, customers, the environment and the community.

- Steve McCann, Lendlease Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
The opening of Melbourne’s first Sky Park at Melbourne Quarter has brought an exciting new green public space to the city for residents, visitors and thousands of Victorians who work nearby. I want to congratulate Lendlease on its commitment to this bold project, which represents a long-term commercial and residential investment in the area.

The Melbourne Quarter precinct creates an important gateway, linking Docklands to the CBD, creating thousands of jobs for Victorians both during construction and once complete.This is a place where Melburnians will want to visit, live and work.

- Richard Wynne, Minister for Planning
</blockquote>

 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/2018_1melbqrtr_102_lowres.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The feature spiral stair leads up to the Sky Park. Image: Lendlease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2018_1melbqrtr_102_lowres.jpg?itok=pjoGtwLh" title="The feature spiral stair leads up to the Sky Park. Image: Lendlease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The feature spiral stair leads up to the Sky Park. Image: Lendlease</figcaption></figure>
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Lendlease officially opens its new offices at One Melbourne Quarter 

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Melbourne's south-east apartment market is set for a major boost with Melbourne developer Steller launching three projects in two weeks across Carnegie, Bentleigh and Cheltenham. Apartments.com.au is currently tracking Steller's project pipeline valued at over $4.2 billion, which includes its first high-rise foray in South Melbourne, working alongside longtime collaborator architect Ewert Leaf. Already the partnership has yielded hundreds of apartments across Melbourne's South Eastern suburbs.

Steller also recently commenced construction on the first stage of its $80 million Continental Hotel redevelopment in Sorrento. The major redevelopment will re-imagine the 143-year-old icon as a luxury accommodation, wellness, recreation, entertainment and dining destination, with the heritage hotel restored as a leading hospitality and events establishment, along with the addition of three new proposed interconnecting buildings, which will include premium hotel rooms and a wellness centre including a day spa and gym.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/continental_hotel-sorrento.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Work has commenced on the $80 million Continental Hotel development in Sorrento. Images: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="186" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/continental_hotel-sorrento.jpg?itok=TeJIBVrR" title="Work has commenced on the $80 million Continental Hotel development in Sorrento. Images: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Work has commenced on the $80 million Continental Hotel development in Sorrento. Images: Steller</figcaption></figure>Steller's trio of new apartment developments are all located within maturing apartment markets which are well serviced by public transport and within close proximity of retail strips, schools and supermarkets. Carnegie and Bentleigh in particular have benefited from the Victorian Government's Level Crossing Removal program which included the reconstruction of the respective stations, removing the conflict between rail and vehicle, while easing congestion.

Additionally, the three projects align with Steller's strategy in the south-east of delivering low-rise developments of around 30 apartments which are well designed and offer residents a high level of amenity.

<h2><a href="/buildings/laila-residences-7-11-belsize-avenue-carnegie">Laila - 7-11 Belsize Avenue, Carnegie</a></h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/am18-21_lailaresidences_domain_living_1920x1080.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Laila, Carnegie. Image: Steller"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/am18-21_lailaresidences_domain_living_1920x1080.jpg?itok=tkYZj0lK" title="Laila, Carnegie. Image: Steller" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Laila, Carnegie. Image: Steller</figcaption></figure>Located within the heart of Carnegie, Laila comprises 35 apartments across four levels, within walking distance of the Koornang Road retail and dining strip, green open space and the recently rebuilt Carnegie Station. The project also capitalises on its proximity to Chadstone Shopping Centre and Monash University’s Caulfield campus, both just just five minutes’ drive away in either direction.

Ewert Leaf's design for the exterior of the building allows it to sit comfortably within the low-rise streetscape. Employing a neutral palette of contrasting shades and highly textured materials, Laila is articulated as a series of buildings rather than one singular mass, with the upper level setback and designed to be visually recessive. The built form has also been designed to maximise privacy while minimising overshadowing to adjoining properties.

Laila's mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, each come with one or two bathrooms, and private outdoor spaces which seamlessly connect to the interiors, with large windows providing living areas with ample natural light and ventilation. The interiors feature timber flooring throughout, while kitchens are appointed with sleek black ILVE appliances and shaker style cabinets.

<h2><a href="/buildings/sora-13-15-hamilton-street-bentleigh">SORA - 13-15 Hamilton Street, Bentleigh</a></h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/steller_sora_bentleigh_digital_assets_domain_premium_project-gallery_photos_1920x1080px_012.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sora, Bentleigh. Image: Steller"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/steller_sora_bentleigh_digital_assets_domain_premium_project-gallery_photos_1920x1080px_012.jpg?itok=O5VI-U7x" title="Sora, Bentleigh. Image: Steller" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sora, Bentleigh. Image: Steller</figcaption></figure>Ewert Leaf are once again the architects behind SORA, a four-storey low-rise of 27 apartments located 15km from the Melbourne CBD in Bentleigh.  Providing a mix of larger one, two &amp; three bedroom apartments, SORA has been designed to appeal to professionals, couples and families.

Situated within walking distance of Bentleigh Station, SORA also benefits from its proximity to Coles, Target, and the Centre Road retail strip which provides an array of essential services and amenity. A number of green spaces are also located within a short walk.

SORA's exterior is characterised by its tiered form, and combination of timber, brick and textured concrete with planters and vegetation providing green flourishes on the facade. The building is expressed as two forms to respond to the built form along the Hamilton Street and to minimise its impact on the streetscape and surrounding properties.

Internally, SORA comes complete with ILVE kitchen appliances and much like Laila, shaker-style cabinetry and natural timber flooring. In keeping with the desire to provide apartments with natural light and ventilation, large windows have been provided which also allow for a green outlook and seamless transition to the outdoors.

<h2><a href="/buildings/maude-7-11-maude-street-cheltenham">Maude - 7-11 Maude Street, Cheltenham</a></h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/steller_mc_maude_street_cheltenham_digital_assets_domain_premium_project-gallery_photos_1920x1080px_01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Steller's Maude is set to launch in the next week. Image: Steller"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/steller_mc_maude_street_cheltenham_digital_assets_domain_premium_project-gallery_photos_1920x1080px_01.jpg?itok=dXB56Mya" title="Steller's Maude is set to launch in the next week. Image: Steller" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Steller's Maude is set to launch in the next week. Image: Steller</figcaption></figure>Set to launch to market in the next week, this four-storey building comprising 34 apartments has been designed by regular Steller collaborators, Ewert Leaf. Look out for Apartments.com.au's feature on Cheltenham's development pipeline including Maude next week.
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A Steller showcase in Melbourne's south-east

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It's officially spring and so it would also appear, ground breaking season. Apartments.com.au was onsite along with Lord Mayor Sally Capp and representatives from S P Setia, Multiplex, Fender Katsalidis, Cox Architecture and Shangri-La to celebrate the ground breaking of Sapphire By The Gardens and the official appointment of Multiplex as head contractor.

S P Setia’s 62-storey, $565 million development mixed-use development will feature Melbourne’s first 5-star Shangri-La hotel of 500 suites, in addition to 300 apartments with 95% sales achieved at time of writing. With Multiplex on board as the builder, a 3 year construction programme  is expected with Shangri-La Melbourne due to open in 2022.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/breaking_ground_at_sapphire_by_the_gardens.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lord Mayor Sally Capp with representatives from the development team"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/breaking_ground_at_sapphire_by_the_gardens.jpeg?itok=Jan7PJI7" title="Lord Mayor Sally Capp with representatives from the development team" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lord Mayor Sally Capp with representatives from the development team. Image: Nate Moir</figcaption></figure>Located at 308 Exhibition Street opposite the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Carlton Gardens, the design of Sapphire By The Gardens draws on and celebrates its garden location with a podium and urban realm characterised by lush greenery. The dual tower development's signature feature however, is its two-storey sky bridge linking the towers 50-storeys up in the air, and providing unique panoramic views across Melbourne to Carlton Gardens and beyond.

Speaking at the event to mark the occasion, Architect and Founding Director of Fender Katsalidis (FK), Karl Fender joked that if not for FK and Cox competing against each other, either firm would have won the competition outright. Instead because S P Setia couldn't split them they formed a partnership combining ideas from their respective concepts to produce Sapphire By The Gardens - "two architects for the price of one" said Fender with a wry smile.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/sapphire_by_the_gardens_overlooking_carlton_gardens.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sapphire By The Gardens, draws on its location opposite the Carlton Gardens. Image: S P Setia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sapphire_by_the_gardens_overlooking_carlton_gardens.jpg?itok=brZYCgza" title="Sapphire By The Gardens, draws on its location opposite the Carlton Gardens. Image: S P Setia" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sapphire By The Gardens, draws on its location opposite the Carlton Gardens. Image: S P Setia</figcaption></figure><h2>What the say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Today's ground breaking ceremony marks an extremely significant milestone not just for Setia, but for Melbourne and so we are deeply honoured to have the Lord Mayor present to celebrate this auspicious occasion. We are here of course to mark the commencement of the construction works of this visionary twin tower project comprising Victoria's first Shangri-La hotel and Sapphire By The Gardens residences.

S P Setia with our A-team consultants and our giant builder Multiplex, has been working tirelessly to bring this project to reality. And now here we stand, proud that this has been achieved, and accordingly we would like to thank the City of Melbourne, in particular for the support it provided during the formative stages of the project.

Effort in each of our projects, both large and small to sensitively contribute to their context but perhaps none moreso than Sapphire By The Gardens. With its Shangri-La hotel, these striking twin towers mark the north-eastern gateway into the city through the stunning World Heritage Carlton Gardens and this has inspired a richly landscaped podium and forecourt presence to the public realm. On the other hand floating high above, the Skybridge - also open of course to the public and a first in Australia - will provide never-before-seen views of Melbourne and the Gardens.

The Shangri-La is one of the finest hotels in the world, it is fitting that it enjoys the primacy of this location  which is one of the finest in Melbourne. We are extremely proud to deliver this project to Melbourne and extremely privileged to share this moment with our Mayor, Sally Capp.

- Mr Choong Kai Wai, CEO of S P Setia’s Australian operations
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
On this very spot a significant architectural project is soon to rise above the streets of Melbourne. We will have our oldest iconic building, the Royal Exhibition Building looking on as our newest iconic building with its Skybridge is built right here. Congratulations to everyone involved.

I want to acknowledge that ambition is indeed at home right here in Melbourne. Melbourne's booming economic performance shows no sign of slowing down and projects such as this with its enormous scale is all important in terms of the investments and development happening right here in our city.

We expect our residential population to rise by over 50% over the next decade and so the investment in the much needed housing and accommodation that will happen through Sapphire By The Gardens is very welcome. I also note the thoughtfulness of what will happen at a street level as part of this project and the fact that this environment will add to Melbourne's reputation for engaging in distinctive experiences, you are also delivering that.

- Lord Mayor, Sally Capp 
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Today is made very auspicious by this ground breaking ceremony, yet to come. It's ground breaking on a very, very special site in Melbourne, possibly, I would argue, the best site in Melbourne. It's on the gateway into Melbourne from the east, through the stunning World heritage gardens of the Carlton Gardens so it's appropriate that this gateway, this entry into Melbourne, is celebrated in the right way and makes all the right announcements.

Announcements such as 'great design comes first'. Our city is based on great design, past and present and going forward. On that note I really would like to make a special mention to Phillip Rowe and his team at Cox, who are our co-architects, co-designers on this project.

It will also sign Melbourne, the garden city, with this incredible garden entry way, in the design process we thought about bringing the Carlton Gardens across LaTrobe Street and into the building, through a beautiful plaza  meant for the public, and also up the face of the building, particularly the podium.

The futuristic Skybridge - another first for Melbourne - will be fantastic, it will provide new views over Melbourne for everybody whilst you sip your gin martini.

- Karl Fender, Founding Director Fender Katsalidis
</blockquote>

 
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S P Setia and Shangri-La break ground on Sapphire By The Gardens

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The Englefield, a boutique collection of seven generously-sized apartments located along the tree-lined Chambers Street in South Yarra, was recently completed by builder VCON. The development which was designed to celebrate the relationship between nature and the built environment, is a collaboration between developer Perri Projects, architects Woods Bagot and landscape architect Paul Bangay.

According to Perri Projects, The Englefield will enjoy the benefits of tailored living that is reminiscent of a hotel rather than an apartment building, with only two residences remaining including a full floor penthouse. The design is characterised by a rich bluestone façade softened by verdant vines, with Woods Bagot drawing on its extensive experience across a range of sectors to provide The Englefield with a 'hotel feel'. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/englefield-006.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The interiors of apartments benefit from seamless connections to the exterior. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/englefield-006.jpg?itok=ynpYIMN5" title="The interiors of apartments benefit from seamless connections to the exterior. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The interiors of apartments benefit from seamless connections to the exterior. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>Woods Bagot’s focus on design craftsmanship is evident, where the kitchen joinery and island bench as well as bathroom vanities and bedroom cabinetry, have all been custom designed to create a bespoke, one-of-a-kind design motif throughout.

<a href="/news/discussing-apartment-design-with-woods-bagots-peter-miglis">Speaking to Urban.com.au last month</a>, Woods Bagot's Peter Miglis noted the maturing apartment market and the importance of designing apartments based on the same principles of a more traditional home, with bespoke features which celebrate the craftsmanship and considered design of the apartment.

<blockquote>
...what we're finding is that there is a market that is maturing, that has become comfortable with the idea of living in apartments. But apartments not as we've traditionally known them, as these minimal requirements and getting the yield up. It's now about apartments that adopt qualities of living in a home, and what I mean by that is having more area internally, having a social network within the complex as well.

We always circle back when we look at apartment planning - how would a house perform and function? And how would we take those attributes and put that into an apartment plan. Maybe one day we don't call them apartments, maybe we adopt another name for them as a fusion between house and apartment coming together. 

...there's also the care to detail, even right down to the kitchen door handles. Moments like that where they are bespoke and they have a sense of individual character and care about them, people have an affinity to that level of detail. 

- Peter Miglis, Principal, Woods Bagot 
</blockquote>

This synergy between the contemporary and the traditional is reflected in the use of marble and bronze accents in the kitchen and living areas which are complemented by Chevron patterned Oak timber floors, while a Woods Bagot-designed timber display cabinet reinforces the attention to detail and craftmanship. 

Every room enjoys a green outlook, with windows and terraces opening out to Bangay’s European landscapes which have been designed to act as an extension of the living space, another Woods Bagot hallmark.Apartments are also fitted with smart technology that allows residents to control lighting, heating and blinds remotely through an app on their smartphones.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/englefield-050.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The 200sqm penthouse enjoys large outdoor terraces and city views. Image: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/englefield-050.jpg?itok=pPzq00X-" title="The 200sqm penthouse enjoys large outdoor terraces and city views. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The 200sqm penthouse enjoys large outdoor terraces and city views. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>A three bedroom penthouse spanning 200 sqm occupies the whole top floor, with terraces totalling 110sqm and floor-to-ceiling windows along three sides allowing sunlight access into the interior while also providing panoramic views across the city. The penthouse is expected to fetch between $3.8 - $4.1million and also includes three bathrooms, a powder room, a library, a 128-bottle wine cellar and three car lock up garage.

Woods Bagot and Perri Projects are also collaborating on 23-29 Victoria Street on the northern edge of the Melbourne CBD. The 25-storey apartment development will replace the CBD's last remaining service station with 90 apartments.

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
The Englefield goes beyond traditional apartment living, where comfort, security and unparalleled design are offered in addition to the services and amenity of a hotel. With remote home automation and an abundance of delivery, cleaning and valet services at their disposal, residents can focus on relaxing when they are at home. We are proud to have partnered with an incredible team of architects to bring world-class design to this building, with all the benefits and opportunities that modern technology provides.

-  David Scalzo, Managing Director, Perri Projects
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The penthouse is an incredibly unique opportunity to enjoy the space and splendour of a high-end home with the convenience of contemporary living. There are very few purchasers who can say their home is designed by Woods Bagot, an award-winning architecture practice that has been responsible for some of the biggest luxury hotels, commercial buildings and mixed-use precincts in the world. The level of quality craftsmanship, design integrity and fastidious attention to detail of this apartment is unmatched by anything else I’ve seen in the market.

-  Marcus Chiminello, Director, Marshall White
</blockquote>

<h2>The Englefield Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Perri Projects</li>
	<li>Architect: Woods Bagot</li>
	<li>Landscape architect: Paul Bangay</li>
	<li>Sales agent: Marshall White</li>
</ul>
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The Englefield brings hotel-style living and craftsmanship to South Yarra

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Designs for the next phase of Growland Group's six tower <a href="/buildings/victoria-square-8-hopkins-street-footscray">Victoria Square residential development</a> in Footscray have been released. <a href="/news/fender-katsalidis-appointed-for-victoria-squares-next-phase">As reported</a> on Apartments.com.au back in May, Fender Katsalidis were tasked with the design of the twin tower project, located within the Joseph Road precinct bound by Hopkins Street, the Maribyrnong River and the railway line.

The Joseph Road Precinct represents 15 hectares of developable land which has been identified as a Priority Development Zone in the Council’s Structure Plan for Footscray.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/grow10087_vic_sq_stage_2_e01_hero.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The first of two tower, VS03 was launched this month. Image: Growland Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/grow10087_vic_sq_stage_2_e01_hero.jpg?itok=t9xReUwg" title="The first of two tower, VS03 was launched this month. Image: Growland Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The first of two towers, VS03 was launched this month. Image: Growland Group</figcaption></figure>In launching stage three which will be known as VS03, Growland claims it has responded to buyer demand and a maturing apartment market. VS03 will feature a product mix and floor plans geared towards owner occupiers, who account for 80 per cent of the sales to date. 76 per cent of the apartments within stage three comprise two-bedroom, two-bathrooms, while all 86 apartments will feature floor plans larger than Melbourne’s average and have at least one car space, one storage cage and a private balcony ranging from eight to 13 sqm.

Fender Katsalidis have designed twin curvilinear towers which draw on Victoria Square's riverside location along the Maribyrnong River, with full height windows maximising panoramic views over the river, the CBD and the bay beyond. VS04 will be released at a later date, with the first two stages achieving 90% sales success.

<blockquote>
We wanted to create a building that offered flexibility for buyers, many of whom are looking to purchase a home that will suit them as they shift through various stages of life. Each apartment has been designed specifically for owner occupiers, taking into account their wants and needs and how we can optimise their living experience.

- James Pearce, Director, Fender Katsalidis
</blockquote>

<iframe frameborder="0" height="420" src="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/footscray-vic?embeddable=map" width="100%"></iframe>

 

With construction expected to commence in late 2019, VS03 will add to Footscray's development pipeline of <a href="/developments/footscray-vic-3011">45 projects currently being tracked on the Urban.com.au database</a>. It's fair to say Footscray is now well on its way to realising its potential as an Activity Centre with support from both local and state government, and private investment.

 

One of the largest projects within the Joseph Road precinct will be 2 Neilson Place. Designed by Architecton for FJP Pty Ltd the development will comprise 4 towers, 577 apartments over 26-storeys along with 572 car spaces and retail tenancies on a corner site of 6,264 sqm with frontages to Maryibyrnong Street and Neilson Place. 

Projects currently under construction within Footscray include multi-tower developments at <a href="/buildings/riverina-22-hopkins-street-footscray">Riverina</a> and 2 Hopkins Street, and the largest development within Footscray, <a href="/buildings/live-city-124-188-ballarat-road-footscray">LiveCity</a>. Occupying a massive 33,393 sqm site, the first stage will account for 208 apartments on the western portion of the site. LU Simon is at the helm of the stage one build of 15-storeys, with future stages varying in heights between eight and 18-storeys. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/footscray_development_projects_oct.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Key projects across Footscray include Neilson Place, Riverina and LiveCity"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/footscray_development_projects_oct.jpg?itok=QDeEg5FM" title="Key projects across Footscray include Neilson Place, Riverina and LiveCity" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Key projects across Footscray include Neilson Place, Riverina and LiveCity</figcaption></figure>
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Victoria Square's next phase adds to Footscray's development pipeline 

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has lodged plans for a $750 million, three-tower mixed-use precinct that would complete the long-running redevelopment of Carlton's former Carlton United Breweries site.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/185-195-queensberry-street-carlton-vic-3053">46-78 Bouverie Street and 185-195 Queensberry Street</a> spans a 6,468 sqm site, the last remaining undeveloped parcels within the former brewery's 2007 masterplan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the development will comprise two purpose-built student accommodation towers and a third build-to-sell apartment tower above a shared commercial podium and basement.

Across the three towers, SP Setia is proposing 606 build-to-sell apartments and 1,499 student accommodation units containing 2,009 beds.

The apartments will sit in the tallest tower, which will rise nearly 200m and 55 storeys. It will become&nbsp;one of the more substantial new build-to-sell apartment projects at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD.

The apartment mix is weighted toward smaller inner-city product, with 188 studios, 206 one-bedroom apartments, 192 two-bedroom apartments and 20 three-bedroom apartments

<img alt="First look: SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8271bc87-1b0a-41b7-ac73-a425ee375261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_2.png?VersionId=G4lw23o90B1boX4k4dj7rdz2ZEajS9wy" />

Part of the precinct will be a large-scale&nbsp;3,684 sqm supermarket and a further 2,198 sqm of speciality retail, creating close to 5,900 sqm of new commercial space within the precinct.

But one of the biggest components of the proposal is what sits between the buildings.

Around 4,650 sqm, or roughly 72 per cent of the site, will be publicly accessible open space, incorporating plazas, pedestrian connections, landscaped laneways and retail spill-out areas.

The ground plane is intended to finally complete pedestrian connections envisaged when the CUB masterplan was first approved nearly two decades ago, stitching together Victoria Street, Queensberry Street, Bouverie Street and Swanston Street through the former brewery precinct.

Urbis said the development would "complete the CUB precinct", with the public realm providing important north-south and east-west connections through what is currently the final undeveloped portion of the masterplanned site.

SP Setia is also exploring a new linear park within the Bouverie Street road reserve, with the concept to be developed further with the City of Melbourne through the planning process.

The proposal is being pursued through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program under Clause 53.23 for significant residential development with affordable housing.

The planning report acknowledges the proposed heights exceed those contemplated under the original Comprehensive Development Plan and masterplan, but argues the built-form context has changed considerably over the past two decades.

Urbis said the three towers would instead create a stepped transition between Carlton and the Hoddle Grid, rising progressively from the 94.1-metre Tower One along the Queensberry Street edge to the 199.44-metre Tower Three closer to the established CBD-scale buildings to the south.

<img alt="SP Setia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e885a07a-592c-40fc-bf82-e6dbaf32da54" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.52.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7s_ErUkSKAdY1mAWp3GRZgMNCGtwhk5m" />

SP Setia plans to deliver the development across three stages.

Stage One would deliver the basement, podium and retail areas for the entire precinct alongside the first student tower. Tower Two would follow in Stage Two, before the 606-apartment Tower Three is delivered as the final stage.

If approved and delivered, the project would close out a redevelopment process that has been underway since the former brewery masterplan was approved in 2007, adding more than 2,600 student beds and apartments to a precinct already home to Swanston Central, the Barak Building, RMIT Design Hub and several large student accommodation developments.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct

Melbourne developer Lowe Living is seeking to add to its growing bayside apartment pipeline, filing plans for a boutique eight-residence development in tightly held Middle Park.

Lowe Living, which has built much of its development portfolio across Melbourne's affluent bayside and south-east suburbs, is behind the plans for the 730 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/123-125-erskine-street-middle-park-vic-3206">123-125 Erskine Street</a>, just off Armstrong Street and within the Armstrong Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

The developer is seeking approval for a five-storey residential building above two basement levels, with just eight large-format apartments and 18 car spaces.

“This is a deliberately very different proposition for us,"&nbsp;Tim Lowe, Co-Founder of Lowe Living, said.

"Eight residences is exceptionally boutique, but that's precisely what this site calls for.

“There is a strong community in Middle Park and the surrounding suburbs who have spent decades building a life here. They no longer want the maintenance of a large period home, but they aren't prepared to compromise on space, quality or location. We think there is a real opportunity to capture that hyper local market. A site like this rarely comes to market.”

<img alt="Lowe " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="875fe572-0f14-4d90-9e11-55b28dd07731" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.42.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GDNQRv9BfpR9r1zkZ5UDyUM4ZvpIksut" />

The low-density proposal has been designed by Cera Stribley and is being progressed through the Victorian Government's Great Design Fast Track pathway, having already secured eligibility from the Minister for Planning.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect supported its eligibility after finding the proposal demonstrated consistency with the program's seven design principles, while the project's financial feasibility has also been independently confirmed by Invest Victoria.

The project is targeting the downsizer market, with the planning documents describing the homes as larger-format residences and noting the two penthouses could otherwise have been configured as four separate apartments.

<img alt="Lowe 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60ab0987-2da6-4175-adac-315dcf6053c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.15%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bOCPH0B2MFwlmaRW.TTCF9TzyifgVoQI" />

The site has dual frontage to Erskine Street and Canterbury Place and currently comprises a collection of commercial buildings used as offices, including a former heritage bakehouse, a former stable, a later gabled addition and a central courtyard.

It sits within the Commercial 1 Zone and the Armstrong Street Commercial Precinct heritage overlay, with the existing property classified as a contributory heritage place.

Heritage has subsequently played a significant role in Cera Stribley's design.

The front section of the former bakehouse facing Erskine Street will be retained, including its return walls, street-facing hipped roof and chimneys, while the Erskine Street façade and part of the western return wall of the former stable will also be incorporated into the new development.

Levels four and five will be set back five metres from the retained stable façade, while bricks removed through demolition are proposed to be salvaged and reused within the new building where possible.

<img alt="Lowe 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e97927a9-a2de-4a0f-83b6-65451238abfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VR44AChLrX9q1XPB9GvVQV.ALXXbe4gC" />

Rather than presenting as a single five-storey building to Erskine Street, Cera Stribley has broken the development into a series of distinct forms.

A three-storey infill element will sit between the retained bakehouse and stable façades, with the upper levels recessed behind the heritage fabric. Canterbury Place will similarly feature two three-storey podium forms, separated by a central pedestrian accessway, before the upper two levels step back from the street.

A pedestrian through-link will run through the centre of the project between Erskine Street and Canterbury Place, creating entrances from both sides of the site and introducing landscaping and communal areas through the ground plane.

Landscape architect Acre has designed planting across the ground level, private terraces and upper levels, including a feature canopy tree at level three and integrated planting and arbours across the level four terraces. Five existing Erskine Street trees are proposed to be retained.

Sustainability is also a significant component of the Great Design Fast Track application. The apartments are targeting an average eight-star NatHERS rating, with no residence below 6.5 stars, while the project has achieved a 75 per cent BESS score. Seven of the eight apartments are designed for cross-ventilation, with the remaining residence using mechanically assisted natural ventilation.

The plans also incorporate an 8kWp rooftop solar system, a 5,000-litre rainwater tank and infrastructure allowing future electric vehicle charging for every residence.

Lowe has a strong portfolio across Melbourne's blue-chip suburbs. They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House by Lowe Living</a> in Camberwell, their first development in the Stonnington LGA.

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

<a data-end="327" data-is-only-node="" data-start="250" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/norus-projects" rel="noopener" target="_new">Norus Developments</a> has lodged plans for a new apartment development in Clayton that would add further momentum to the suburb's emerging Green Street corridor.

Plans have been lodged for the consolidated site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1359-1365-centre-road-clayton-vic-3168">1359-1365 Centre Road</a>, where Norus is seeking approval for 218 apartments across a 12-storey apartment building designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/life-architecture-and-urban-design">Life Architecture</a>.

The proposal sits within the Clayton Major Activity Centre at the threshold of the planned Green Street corridor, a landscaped pedestrian connection intended to improve links through the precinct towards Clayton Railway Station.

The development would replace the site's existing collection of low-scale residential and commercial buildings with a single consolidated building, introducing significantly greater housing density to this part of Centre Road.

A retail tenancy is proposed at ground level to activate the Centre Road frontage, accompanied by transparent street interfaces and landscaping intended to create a more pedestrian-focused edge to the development.

<img alt="First look: Norus Developments plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a5a763a-d9e9-4253-af2f-88008de27ebf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Clayton%20a.png?VersionId=S2WJJbat1XVkZwB9SnYtygirXgWHiklX" />

The building has been designed with stepped massing and upper-level setbacks to manage its transition towards surrounding residential properties. The planning report describes the approach as one that integrates the building into the landscape rather than treating landscaping as a secondary element.

"A strong landscape and public realm strategy underpins the proposal," Urbis states in the planning report.

"Public benefits include an affordable housing contribution, a new pocket park, generous landscaped setbacks, deep soil planting and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design."

The report adds that these elements are intended to create "a permeable, pedestrian-focused ground plane that enhances walkability, supports urban cooling and reinforces the emerging Green Street character."

Biophilic and passive design principles extend through the residential levels, with planting, daylight, natural ventilation and views towards landscaped areas forming part of the amenity strategy.

Parking would be concentrated away from the public realm, with 145 car spaces proposed from the rear laneway rather than dominating the Centre Road frontage.

The proposal follows an extensive pre-application process with the City of Monash. Three formal meetings were held between the project team and Council from December 2025 to March 2026, with the scheme evolving through several concept iterations before the current design was lodged.

The project arrives as Clayton prepares for substantial change around its established activity centre and the wider Suburban Rail Loop precinct. Its position on Centre Road places the development within an existing concentration of shops, services and public transport, while the Green Street connection is intended to strengthen pedestrian access towards Clayton Railway Station.

First look: Norus plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> has officially commenced construction on Bronze on Chevron, celebrating the sod turning of its first-ever Gold Coast development and marking a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion across South East Queensland.&nbsp;

Following the successful delivery of premium residential developments throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> represents Gardner Vaughan Group's entry into the Gold Coast market. Bronze will deliver 119 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above two ground-level retail tenancies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367193]

The recent sod turning ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, President of the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, Cassandra Sedgman, project consultants, purchasers, project partners and invited guests to celebrate the commencement of construction.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge said Bronze on Chevron represented an exciting new chapter for the business.&nbsp;

"We've spent almost four decades building homes that respond to the way people want to live, and we're excited to bring that experience to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>," Betteridge said.

"Bronze on Chevron is particularly significant because it marks Gardner Vaughan Group's first development on the Gold Coast following many successful projects across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367183]

Betteridge said the ground breaking is a proud moment for the&nbsp;team and their purchasers, who can now see their future homes beginning to take shape.&nbsp;

"As both developer and builder, we're able to oversee every aspect of the project from design through to construction, ensuring the quality and attention to detail Gardner Vaughan Group has become renowned for."&nbsp;

Designed by acclaimed architectural practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, Bronze on Chevron has been thoughtfully designed to complement Chevron Island's evolving streetscape while embracing its relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029

Laurence Dragomir

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