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The penultimate entry in Apartments.com.au’s Nightingale Village series is Architecture Architecture’s Nightingale Coup, in collaboration with Breathe Architecture. Located at 24-26 Hope Street, the eight-storey building is the most southerly of the Nightgale Village seven, setback from Kennedy Nolan's building to the north to allow for the proposed mews. 

Nightingale Coup has also been designed to address any potential future development on the adjoining sites to the east and west, setting a planning framework for those that might follow. A central light court provides circulation and access to apartments while also ensuring all apartments benefit from the dual-aspect configuration, with primary aspect to either the north or south. This allows for improved internal amenity via increased daylight and natural ventilation.

<blockquote>
The architectural expression of Nightingale Coup responds to the site’s industrial history and context through its honest, robust materiality while evoking a sense of familiar domesticity through breaking the building into finer grain elements, referencing traditional roof &amp; chimney line forms in the street wall parapet, and reinterpreting materials like shingles in contemporary ways.

This familiar yet contemporary architectural treatment encompasses the values of the co-housing group that it will be home for — Urban Coup — while expressing an affectionate understanding of the local context and 
history.

- Architecture Architecture
</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/architecture_architecture_nv-01.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nightingale Coup, provides a highly textured presence to the street. Image: Architecture Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/architecture_architecture_nv-01.jpg?itok=9sFyB6sO" title="Nightingale Coup, provides a highly textured presence to the street. Image: Architecture Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale Coup, provides a highly textured presence to the street. Image: Architecture Architecture</figcaption></figure>For the most part, Nightingale Coup follows the urban formula of its siblings in how it formally responds to planning considerations and fits within the overall master plan for Nightingale Village.

To the southern frontage, along Hope Street the building’s streetwall is expressed as a solid cream brick base, carved and punctured with arched and orthogonal apertures and a profiled roof form evoking . The depth created between the perimeter walls and glazing line allows for outdoor balconies which provide internal spaces with privacy and shading during summer months.

The upper levels are setback and treated with a textured concrete that evokes roof shingles, resulting in a visually recessive upper form above the streetwall. This overall streetwall and upper level strategy is also employed to the northern frontage albeit with a slightly more light weight approach, responding to the proposed mews. 

The streetwalls are also split into two and distinguished via a staggering of heights. One is expressed as a more solid massing, once again carved with apertures and the other featuring a lightweight framework which supports the balconies. Combined, these strategies aim to reduce the visual mass of the building.

In keeping with the Nightingale Village ethos of building more with less, Nightingale Coup employs robust and durable materials of a largely domestic scale, which reflect Nightingale Village's industrial context and create a cohesive urban village. 

<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/architecture_architecture_nv-02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The northern aspect appears much more lightweight and transparent. Image: Architecture Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="363" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/architecture_architecture_nv-02.jpg?itok=NXYNaUPX" title="The northern aspect appears much more lightweight and transparent. Image: Architecture Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The northern aspect appears much more lightweight and transparent. Image: Architecture Architecture</figcaption></figure>Communal rooftop spaces are located to the south on level 7 and on the roof with a northerly aspect. Between them these spaces provide for passive landscaped areas to dwell, productive gardens, communal laundry and clothesline and extensive decking. The building also accommodates the vehicular access ramp to the precinct’s car share hub, located in the basement of Skye House. This has been integrated into the overall design of the street frontage.

At ground level a 136 sqm retail tenancy is provided with a Hope Street address, while the mews frontage incorporating a communal kitchen and dinning area which spills out onto a communal deck. Additionally, the design team have designed an active ground floor with nooks, seats and a semi public laneway at the entry of the building help foster a local community spirit.

Upon completion Nightingale Coup would add 31 dwellings to the precinct comprising a mix of one, two, three and four bedroom configurations, and provision for 28 visitor bike spaces and 64 resident bike spaces. The shared basement parking hub has capacity for six private car parks and 14 <a href="/guides/weekly-podcast-episode-28-gogets-justin-passaportis-and-joshua-brydges">GoGet</a> car share spaces.

In the final piece of the series we'll be looking at Austin Maynard's Nightingale Village project.
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Laurence Dragomir

Nightingale Village - Episode VI - Nightingale Coup

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The first of the State Library Victoria's new spaces were unveiled last Friday as part of the Library's Vision 2020 redevelopment. Once fully complete, the $88.1 million transformation will increase the total amount of public space by 40% and seating by 70%. Architectus and Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects are leading the design for Vision 2020.

Once home to the Melbourne Museum (1906 to 1997) and the NGV (1999 to 2002), the redeveloped spaces will be accessed by two new entrances – the historic Russell Street entrance, which was closed for more than a decade, and a new accessible entrance on La Trobe Street. These two entrances form the main points of entry for Library visitors for the duration of the redevelopment works.

The Swanston Street entrance and ground floor have been closed to allow for the next stage of construction, and will reopen upon completion in 12 months time. A brand new, exhibition gallery - the Victoria Gallery - is also set to open in May 2019, with support from the John and Myriam Wylie Foundation. 

As part of the first stage of redevelopment, two new reading rooms and a dedicated special events venue were created, joining a new lounge and meeting space. A 60% larger Readings bookshop and new cafe, Guild also feature in the first stage works. The shared meeting space has been designed for working, collaborating and relaxing, and will also feature a large-scale original artwork by Melbourne artist Tai Snaith running along the length of the wall.

<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/slv_readings_bookshop_1_credit_patrick_rodriguez.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The expanded Readings bookshop. Image: Patrick Rodriguez"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/slv_readings_bookshop_1_credit_patrick_rodriguez.jpg?itok=HxasCcxj" title="The expanded Readings bookshop. Image: Patrick Rodriguez" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The expanded Readings bookshop. Image: Patrick Rodriguez</figcaption></figure>The the Victorian Government has provided $60.4m towards funding the redevelopment, with the balance of the $88.1m raised via philanthropic support. 

<h2>Key features</h2>

<ul>
<li>The Russell Street heritage entrance, the original entrance to Melbourne Museum, built in 1906</li>
	<li>The Russell Street Welcome Zone, a lounge and meeting space inside the Russell Street entrance seating 69 and designed for visitors to meet, study, work or relax, also housing Readings bookshop and new cafe, Guild</li>
	<li>The Arts Reading Room moves to a heritage gallery seating 52, with new technology including AV stations and listening posts to access the Library’s vast multimedia collection</li>
	<li>The Herald and Weekly Times Newspapers Reading Room and Helen Macpherson Smith Trust Family History Reading Room share a stunning heritage gallery seating 76 which, along with the Arts Reading Room, is a designated quiet space for reading and research</li>
	<li>Isabella Fraser Room, a heritage events venue now available for hire, named after the Library’s first female employee seating 156 banquet style, 200 conference style and 220 cocktail style and is supported by state-of-the-art audio-visual technology and a new production kitchen</li>
	<li>Readings bookshop moves from the western end of the Library to the eastern end, increasing in size by 60% with an expanded children’s section</li>
	<li>New cafe, Guild is operated by Melbourne’s largest distributor of fresh almond milk, Almond Milk Co., offering plain and flavoured almond milk, a seasonal menu of salads and sandwiches, coffee by Sensory Lab and coffee day passes for all day supply of filter coffee</li>
	<li>A large-scale artwork installed inside the Russell Street Welcome Zone by Melbourne artist, Tai Snaith, titled ‘Open Book’ was selected from 77 artist submissions, with Snaith awarded $20,000 to produce the piece, which is her largest work to date</li>
	<li>Victoria Gallery, endowed by the John and Myriam Wylie Foundation is a 500m2 international-standard exhibition space that will showcase collection material using cutting-edge technology creating an immersive and interactive experience for visitors. The inaugural Victoria Gallery exhibition will open in May 2019.</li>
</ul>
<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/slv_russell_street_welcome_zone1_credit_patrick_rodriguez.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The new welcome zone at Russell Street. Image: Patrick Rodriguez"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/slv_russell_street_welcome_zone1_credit_patrick_rodriguez.jpg?itok=xCKmcp7C" title="The new welcome zone at Russell Street. Image: Patrick Rodriguez" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The new welcome zone at Russell Street. Image: Patrick Rodriguez</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say... </h2>

<blockquote>
This visionary project will ensure our State Library continues to be a welcoming and inspiring place for all Victorians, as it has been for the past 162 years. 
State Library Victoria is responding to the needs of the community by opening up more of this beautiful, iconic building to the public – providing additional reading rooms, public spaces and function capacity. 
We’re now at the halfway point of this landmark project and this is our first look at the stunning transformation of State Library Victoria.

- Martin Foley, Minister for Creative Industries 
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
The Library is thrilled to open the first of its transformed spaces, which feature world-class design and allow us to reimagine what a library can be,” Mr Wylie said. 
Visitors are at the heart of everything the Library does and we can’t wait to see people using these magnificent new Library facilities, whether they are researching the collection, collaborating with peers, browsing Readings bookshop or meeting friends for coffee.

- John Wylie, President of the Library Board of Victoria 
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Architectus was tasked with the opportunity to transform the heritage Isabella Fraser Room, to a space that was both flexible and opulent to cater for grand events such as weddings and corporate functions.

One of the key design features is the Denmark-imported soft cell acoustic panels in the Isabella Fraser room, but the beautiful herringbone timber flooring is a stand-out complimenting the elegance and ambience of the building.”

Our design strategy was to strip these spaces back to their inherent beauty, then add a sense that exciting and memorable experiences will occur within them.

- Ruth Wilson, Architectus Director
</blockquote>

 
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State Library Victoria unveils the first of its new spaces

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The Naomi Milgrom Foundation has unveiled highlights of the MPavilion 2018 program which comprises over 400 free events, over the course of its four-month duration.

Opening to the public from 9 October 2018, and running through to 3 February 2019, MPavilion 2018 has been designed by renowned Barcelona-based architect Carme Pinós of Estudio Carme Pinós.

The 2018 program has been curated to respond to the ethos of Carme Pinós, focusing on design and building communities, fostering inclusivity, women in leadership and the architecture of education.

The first event on MPavilion's 2018 calendar will be held on Tuesday 9th of October at 12:15pm coinciding with the official launch. Carme Pinós will join a panel discussion curated by Melbourne Festival titled ‘The land on which we stand’ exploring the idea of country, levels of meaning, occupation and use of land.

The program will take the form of MTalks, MMeets, MMusic, MRelay, MProjects and MKids and will feature talks, dance, performance, kids workshops and installations.

<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/ecp_mpa_imagen_1.2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="MPavilion 2018. Image: Estudio Carme Pinós"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ecp_mpa_imagen_1.2.jpg?itok=Cl-7zJZH" title="MPavilion 2018. Image: Estudio Carme Pinós" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>MPavilion 2018. Image: Estudio Carme Pinós</figcaption></figure>MPavilion's 2018 program features over 500 collaborators, including international guests such as London’s former director of Tate art museums Sir Nicholas Serota CH, Hyphen-Labs NY, an international collective of women of colour working at the intersection of art, technology, science and design, and the UK’s Fixperts—a global community of social designers and makers.

Local collaborators include Melbourne Festival, Indigenous architecture forum BLAKitecture, Bakehouse Studios, Chunky Move, Science Gallery, RMIT, State Library Victoria, Multicultural Arts Victoria, Melbourne Music Week, Melbourne Theatre Company, Liquid Architecture and Community Hubs Australia.

In an MPavilion-first, 2018 will also see inaugural Writer in Residence Maddee Clark, and Artist in Residence, local artist Esther Stewart.

For more info and the full MPavilion 2018 program, click <a href="http://mpavilion.org/program/">here</a>.

<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/wmt24577.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Carme Pinós. 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/wmt24577.jpg?itok=dYmrGUdH" title="Carme Pinós. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Carme Pinós. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
The Victorian Government has been a proud partner of MPavilion since it was founded in 2014. This year's ambitious program showcases the important role design plays in our community. MPavilion engages audiences of all ages making an 
active contribution to Melbourne’s cultural and social life and to our reputation as the Creative State.

We are proud to support MPavilion and look forward to another exceptional program of educational, inspirational and innovative ideas.

- Martin Foley, Minister for Creative Industries
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Carme Pinós is a major influence on global architecture, creating spaces that place human experience and environment at the centre of her designs. Inspired by Carme’s design and philosophy, our program engages the city in vital conversations about what it means to be inclusive and community focused.

I’m excited to present this year’s events—they explore the social impact of design yet create enjoyable access for all ages.

- Naomi Milgrom AO, founder of the Naomi Milgrom Foundation 
</blockquote>
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MPavilion 2018 program released 

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The first residents within UEM Sunrise's Aurora Melbourne Central development have begun moving into the lower levels of the soon to be 85-storey mixed-use building this week.

Probuild has handed over 336 apartments out of 941 in total, with the remainder to be completed by the second half of 2019. The next key milestone for the project will be the topping out of the core, which is due to occur in coming weeks as the floor plates follow at 3-4 day cycles.

Upon completion, Aurora will also become the tallest residential tower within the Hoddle Grid at a towering 270 metres, but will be eclipsed by Eureka (297 metres) and the under construction Australia 108 (317 metres).

However, due to its elevation - 16 to 19m across the site - Aurora will appear roughly the same height as Eureka on the Melbourne skyline.

<ul></ul>
<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/aurora_timelapse.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Not long to go before the core tops out. Image: Probuild"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/aurora_timelapse.jpg?itok=5fIuwkDz" title="Not long to go before the core tops out. Image: Probuild" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Not long to go before the core tops out. Image: Probuild</figcaption></figure>While construction work continues above, the first residents will have access to a number of common amenities on Level 9, including two swimming pools (one being a 25 metre lap pool), gym, yoga, barre and karaoke rooms.

Further resident amenities will eventually come online on Level 66 including a resident lounge, dining, function spaces and wellness rooms, while an exclusive club lounge will be located on Level 92. An exclusive resident entry and 24/7 concierge reception desk will be located within the main lobby located on the Ground floor.

The serviced apartment and the strata office components are provided with their own dedicated entries; the latter of which are incorporated into shop-fronts on both La Trobe and Little La Trobe streets.

Retail outlets will also be provided along La Trobe Street, taking advantage of an upgraded streetscape which will be sheltered via a glazed awning structure overhead. The balance of the project's 3,097 square metres of retail will be located within a retail mall with direct access to Melbourne Central Station on Level B2. 

The B1 concourse level will provide capacity for 786 Japanese inspired bike racks with servicing centre and access to Little Latrobe Street. Aurora will also include 362 car spaces within its podium levels.

<blockquote>
We’ve strategically constructed Aurora so that it can accommodate handovers in five stages.

This allows UEM Sunrise’s purchasers to move in and enjoy high-end common areas like the swimming pool and yoga room, while construction continues safely above them.

As a builder, this project has really proven our technical capabilities on an international level. We’ve developed many world first innovations in our safety systems, materials, management technologies and verified transportation initiatives.

- Luke Stambolis, Probuild’s Victorian Managing Director
</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/20180829_probuild_aurora_026_web.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Connection to Melbourne Central. Image: Probuild"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/20180829_probuild_aurora_026_web.jpg?itok=aQo7Cx-Y" title="Connection to Melbourne Central. Image: Probuild" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Connection to Melbourne Central. Image: Probuild</figcaption></figure>The handover of the first apartments within Aurora caps off a big month for Probuild, <a href="/news/probuild-tops-out-at-271-spring-street">with handover of apartments at Avant and the topping out of 271 Spring Street, while major milestones have also been achieved on West Side Place</a>.
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Aurora Melbourne Central's first residents begin moving in

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Earlier this year, <a href="/news/all-roads-lead-to-southern-cross-station">I penned a piece</a> highlighting the convergence of a number of key rail infrastructure projects at Southern Cross Station, and how there was a critical need to master plan not just the station but the greater precinct to accommodate a potential Airport Link Interchange and a new station box for Melbourne Metro 2.0 under Wurundjeri Way.

The puzzle pieces have begun to fall into place with the<a href="/news/consortium-proposes-market-led-super-train-for-melbourne-airport-rail-link"> recent announcement of the market-led AirRail Melbourne</a> proposal with IFM Investors leading a consortium including design and engineering expertise from Aurecon, Cox Architecture and Grimshaw.

<blockquote>
Cox Architecture are delighted to work with Aurecon as part of the AirRail Melbourne consortium headed-up by IFM Investors. This market-led proposal envisages a new Airport Rail link for Melbourne that simultaneously provides substantial network capacity for Australia’s fastest growing city.  The Cox design for the Southern Cross Station interchange links directly into the fabric of Melbourne while providing a stunning new urban addition to the city.

The proposal will be considered by government over the coming months and the consortium has collectively proposed a compelling and integrated city solution that could have wide-ranging benefits far beyond expediting the air-rail-air commute.

- Cox Architecture
</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/airport_station.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The concept for the Airport Station. Image: AirRail Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/airport_station.jpg?itok=aY3_tnzp" title="The concept for the Airport Station. Image: AirRail Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The concept for the Airport Station. Image: AirRail Melbourne</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
We’ve been working with AirRail Melbourne to develop the Airport Station concept design. Offering a distinguished sense of place, our design for the integrated underground station supports Melbourne Airport’s vision for a seamless passenger experience with world-class linkages between the airport, city and regional Victoria. 

Comprising IFM Investors, Melbourne Airport, Metro Trains Australia and SOUTHERN CROSS STATION PTY LTD, AirRail Melbourne’s plan for the city’s long-awaited airport rail link promises the fastest travel times, a premium around-the-clock service and enhanced access for regional Victorians.

- Grimshaw
</blockquote>

Although the <a href="/news/victorian-government-unveils-suburban-rail-loop-election-proposal">Suburban Rail Loop</a> has up until recently occupied much of the spotlight in terms of the Andrews Government's Public Transport strategy, should it be re-elected, Premier Daniel Andrews made it clear there will be further announcements regarding infrastructure investment in the lead up to the election.

It is the opinion of this Editor that any announcement regarding Melbourne Metro 2.0 will coincide with the release of the final Framework and Planning Controls for the Fishermans Bend Urban Renewal Area. Currently two alignments have been canvassed - one through Wirraway; and another through the Employment Precinct.

<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_metro_2_alignments.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Metro 2.0 alignments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/melbourne_metro_2_alignments.jpg?itok=Of9hTtG9" title="Melbourne Metro 2.0 alignments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Metro 2.0 alignments</figcaption></figure>Detailed Precinct Plans - which will come later - will further refine the specific locations of station entries however, it wouldn't surprise me if the Employment Precinct alignment is adopted as that will serve the University of Melbourne's new $1bn Engineering Campus, which is set to occupy seven hectares of the former General Motors Holden (GMH) site.

The proposition of a direct connection from the Employment Precinct via the heart of what will become Melbourne's second commercial centre at Sandridge, in addition to the ability to interchange via a new station box at Southern Cross Station for the airport, seems for the most part, like a no-brainer to me.

Apartments.com.au's <a href="/guides/weekly-podcast-episode-32-the-greens-sam-hibbins-talks-all-things-transport">recent podcast with Greens MP Sam Hibbins</a> outlined that party's prioritisation of Melbourne Metro 2.0 in order to increase capacity on the network to cope with population growth and continuing to untangle Melbourne's dated rail network to become a true Metro.  Will the ALP and Coalition follow suit?

Melbourne Metro 2.0 will however result in increased patronage through Southern Cross Station particularly when combined with the AirRail Melbourne proposal - should it or a derivative proceed after the Melbourne Airport Rail Link and Suburban Rail Loop business cases are completed - putting further strain on the station and the precinct.

Further pressure on the precinct is also coming via increased high-rise development activity, again <a href="/news/the-rise-and-rise-of-melbournes-spencer-street">highlighted by Urban.com.au recently</a>, with sewer upgrade works currently underway to address the increased residential population in the area.

Already in morning and afternoon peak, the footpaths on the corners of Collins/Spencer and Spencer and Bourke are at capacity, with this also occurring during event mode at Marvel Stadium (formerly Etihad) particularly during the AFL season.

The connection from Southern Cross to Marvel Stadium via the Bourke Street pedestrian bridge is also struggling to cope during event mode, becoming a bottleneck as exiting fans attempt to enter the station. Developments around the stadium have attempted to alleviate some of the pressure however, despite best intentions have only really served to move the problem elsewhere.

With the <a href="/news/etihad-stadiums-redevelopment-to-improve-links-to-cbd-and-victoria-harbour">AFL and State Government working on a substantial upgrade of Marvel Stadium</a> - with Cox Architecture having previously developed concepts - there's an opportunity for a fully integrated Master Plan of the area bound by Collins Street, Wurndjeri Way, Bourke Street, Harbour Esplanade, LaTrobe Street and Spencer Street. 

<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/southern_cross_precinct_site.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Southern Cross Station and the greater precinct should form part of a coordinated Master Plan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="463" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/southern_cross_precinct_site.png?itok=G1Tp4Ul1" title="Southern Cross Station and the greater precinct should form part of a coordinated Master Plan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Southern Cross Station and the greater precinct should form part of a coordinated Master Plan</figcaption></figure>This would allow for a reduction in redundant works as other projects in the area are delivered over the course of the next 10 years, with the potential to incorporate some of those outlined by Mayor Sally Capp with the two critical rail projects and the upgrade of Marvel Stadium to truly connect the Melbourne CBD down to Victoria Harbour. 

<h2>Key considerations:</h2>

<ul>
<li>AirRail Melbourne</li>
	<li>Melbourne Metro 2.0</li>
	<li>Marvel Stadium upgrade</li>
	<li>
<a href="/expert-insights/buying/city-of-melbournes-transport-strategy-refresh-its-time-to-walk-the-walk">City of Melbourne Transport Strategy Refresh</a> </li>
	<li>City of Melbourne Mayor Sally Capp's Highline Vision</li>
	<li>Harbour Esplanade Master Plan</li>
</ul>
<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/projects_southern_cross_precinct.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Projects to consider "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="585" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/projects_southern_cross_precinct.png?itok=06QxclYr" title="Projects to consider " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Projects to consider</figcaption></figure>Look out for Part Two in coming weeks, which will be a high level study of what an integrated Master Plan for the Precinct might look like.

Lead Image: AirRail Melbourne (with a bit of Dragomir magic.)
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Why did the chicken cross the road? To get to the airport - Part One

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I recently caught up with Founding Directors of <a href="http://www.odo.co/">One Design Office</a>, Samson Tiew and Jon Liow to discuss the cross-disciplinary approach of their office and their work, in addition to the ability to offer a comprehensive suite of services from architecture to marketing and branding.

We also chat about the office's involvement in the Southbank by Beulah competition and how that whole process came together, culminating in the Future Cities Symposium.

The topic of prototyping and the important role it can play in the design is also raised. Please note, the podcast was recorded on the 13th of September. And remember to subscribe to our <a href="/guides">weekly podcast</a> through your favourite podcast app.

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Weekly Podcast: Episode 34 - One Design Office

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In today's Nightingale Village instalment, we take a look at Skye House by Breathe Architecture, the architects that started it all with the Commons and Nightingale 1.

Located at 1-3 Duckett Street on a site known as Site F, adjacent to Hayball's CRT + YRD, Skye House (or Nightingale 11) will comprise 40 apartments spread across eight floors and topped by a rooftop terrace. The rooftop consists of a communal laundry facility, outdoor clothes line and veggie patch, with plant services and solar PV panels, making up the balance of roof area.

The building also has a single basement level with provision for resident storage facilities, in addition to the precinct's car parking garage with capacity for 12 car share spaces.  A 184 sqm retail tenancy is located on the ground floor with direct access and frontage to Duckett Street.

<blockquote>
Being more than familiar with the Duckett Street area (it’s one block south of our office), we are strongly committed to the success of the Nightingale Village, and dedicated to delivering the best result for our local community and future neighbours.

The architectural expression of Nightingale 11 has been carefully considered to celebrate Brunswick’s eclectic migrant heritage while also acknowledging the site’s industrial history.

We have designed an apartment building, but it’s kind. Unlike the existing pattern of recent development in the area, which leaves much to be desired in terms of public generosities and street activation, the architecture of this building ensures it is a provider both inwardly and externally.

We have looked to iconic, international precedents to inform the arrangement and appearance of 1-3 Duckett Street, particularly the shape and scale of the arched motif along the main, north facade.

- Breathe Architecture
</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/breathe_nv.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Breathe Architecture's Skye House on Duckett Street. Image"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/breathe_nv.jpg?itok=ICNYRnqy" title="Breathe Architecture's Skye House on Duckett Street. Image" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Breathe Architecture's Skye House on Duckett Street. Image: Breathe Architecture</figcaption></figure>The design adopts the approach of its Nightingale siblings in its adoption of honest materials which reflect the industrial character of the area and are tactile, untreated and durable but are curated to form an elegant composition.

Skye House's Duckett Street frontage is characterised by a streetwall response comprising a series of repeated arches which provide a framework for the balconies to sit within while creating a sense of rhythm to the street. This 12m streetwall is visually permeable yet also allows for privacy and retreat, while providing a point of distinction from some of the other Nightingales which have adopted much more solid, crafted bases.

From a sustainable design approach, the arches serve a secondary purpose in shading the interior spaces from the northerly summer sun.

Apartments are provided with primary aspects to either the north or south, with secondary aspects to the eastor via light shafts of 30 sqm (in plan) to ensure a high degree of internal amenity to apartments. These lightwells also accommodate the vertical circulation nodes via stairs and lift core.

Above the streetwall, the upper massing is setback 5m from the street and adopts a heavier visual expression comprising staggered concrete forms with projecting balconies. This austere exterior will be softened with greenery but will largely appear visually recessive from the street.

<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/1_duckett_street_brunswick_-_mps_2018_362_-_adv25_-_site_f_1-3_duckett_street_-_plans.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Skye House as seen from the proposed community park. Image: Breathe Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="414" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1_duckett_street_brunswick_-_mps_2018_362_-_adv25_-_site_f_1-3_duckett_street_-_plans.jpg?itok=uVlA1q9k" title="Skye House as seen from the proposed community park. Image: Breathe Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Skye House as seen from the proposed community park. Image: Breathe Architecture</figcaption></figure>Skye House will also provide residents with direct access to a future proposed park to the east of the building, currently the site of the Moreland car park. While minimal apertures have been provided to this frontage, Skye House still offers a number of residents views to this proposed park along with opportunities for passive surveillance.

The penultimate entry in Apartments.com.au's Nightingale Village series will be  Architecture Architecture's 24-26 Hope Street.
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Nightingale Village - Episode V - Skye House

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Located 23km east of Melbourne’s CBD, Ringwood is beginning to fulfil its potential as a state government-designated development area. Considered fringe suburbia until 15 years ago, Ringwood has enjoyed a substantial growth in recent years, with Apartments.com.au currently tracking 19 projects at various stages of their respective life cycles within the Ringwood Metropolitan Activity Centre, reinforcing its status as a burgeoning satellite city.

With a population of 17,471* and rising, a range of factors have contributed to Ringwood becoming a key property hot spot with investment from both the private and public sectors. The major catalysts has been the $66 million redevelopment of Ringwood Station and the $665 million expansion of Eastland Shopping Centre, which also included a Sage Hotel - the first to be developed above a shopping centre in Melbourne.

Additionally, as Melbourne seeks to decentralise into a series of 20 minute neighbourhoods, Ringwood is capitalising on its proximity to schools, freeways, public transport and major shopping destinations such as Eastland. 

<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/ringwood_development.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Ringwood's development pipeline"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ringwood_development.png?itok=2O9d1-rI" title="Ringwood's development pipeline" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ringwood's development pipeline</figcaption></figure>More recently hotel operator IHG announced it had signed an agreement to operate a Holiday Inn-branded mixed-use development, signalling its confidence in Ringwood. The development will feature 82 apartments and a 164-room hotel offering all day dining and bar, conference and meeting facilities, a gym and a swimming pool, along with on-site parking.

Opening in 2020, the Holiday Inn &amp; Suites Melbourne Ringwood is being developed by Ninety Four Feet and Omni Property Group who recently signed Hamilton Marino to build the CHT Architects-designed complex.

<blockquote>
We are thrilled to sign our second hotel with IHG, and our first hotel in Australia. Ringwood is an exciting destination, with a vibrant community and growing business investment that has included a $66 million upgrade to Ringwood Train Station and a $665 million expansion of Eastland Shopping Centre. We are confident that, with the world’s largest brand family behind it, Holiday Inn &amp; Suites Ringwood will be a huge success

- Dean Rzechta, Managing Director at Ninety Four Feet Property Development (via <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.thehotelconversation.com.au/news/2018/10/08/holiday-inn-hotel-announced-melbourne-suburb-ringwood/1538950503">The Hotel Conversation</a>)
</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/holiday_inn_-_ringwood_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Holiday Inn &amp; Suites Melbourne Ringwood. Image: IHG via The Hotel Conversation"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="372" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/holiday_inn_-_ringwood_2.jpg?itok=3YiuxK2e" title="The Holiday Inn &amp; Suites Melbourne Ringwood. Image: IHG via The Hotel Conversation" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Holiday Inn &amp; Suites Melbourne Ringwood. Image: IHG via The Hotel Conversation</figcaption></figure>Developer OzProperty has also found recent success with its Highwood residential development designed by DKO Architecture, which delivered record-breaking capital appreciation for Ringwood on a challenging site. Completed in late 2017, the master planned development comprises 36 town houses,with an emphasis on maximising light to interiors and providing a variety of architectural typologies along the streetscape.

<blockquote>
DKO has designed Highwood with a range of streetscape typologies to reflect families who make up a large proportion of the local area. It is no surprise that one of the homes at Highwood has broken the record for capital appreciation because Ringwood is an exciting area for everyday people who are looking to get onto the property market. It’s one of several government identified growth zones, where infrastructure and industry will be leveraged for capital growth.

- Koos de Keijzer
</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/ebp_ozproperty_highwood_ringwood-6298.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="OzProperty's Highwood development has experienced substantial capital growth in a short time. Images: OzProperty"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="202" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ebp_ozproperty_highwood_ringwood-6298.jpg?itok=xOYrAVO_" title="OzProperty's Highwood development has experienced substantial capital growth in a short time. Images: OzProperty" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>OzProperty's Highwood development has experienced substantial capital growth in a short time. Images: OzProperty</figcaption></figure>Purchasers Lu Dongyan &amp; Duan Hongbo purchased Highwood’s Lot 26 off the plan in 2015 for $549,000 and settled the property on 6th November 2017. They decided to sell their home a few months later in April 2018 for $702,500. They making a profit of $153,500 in 5 months.

Highwood has demonstrated that demand for highly considered, architecturally designed medium density homes with multiple typologies, and close to amenity and transport are still highly sought after.

<blockquote>
The overall Melbourne market is generally challenging, however areas such as Ringwood are still maintaining strong interest from buyers. The primary reason is the recent infrastructure and private development spending has now been delivered, making Ringwood a great place to be, but another part of the story is price attainability and affordability. You can still get a 4 BR townhouse, suitable for a family, under $1m. We’re all aware the challenge in the current market is the limited liquidity and credit due to the main banks’ lending policy changes, so affordability is critical. 

Ringwood was a suburb in transition. The central Ringwood area was earmarked for over $1b in developments including the Eastland expansion, new Costco, Ringwood train station upgrade and a series of mixed use developments. Furthermore, the supply of large parcels of land was limited, so we had a unique opportunity to offer a high quality medium density solution in the backdrop of all the other higher density development activity.

With most of the infrastructure and developments now complete, Ringwood today offers a much higher level of liveability than other suburbs. It’s surprisingly walkable and the green, leafy outlook is just wonderful.

- Raghav Goel, Director, Oz Property
</blockquote>

Established in 2007, Oz Property Group is focused on delivering sustainable, considered developments around key activity zones in response to a rapidly evolving and growing Melbourne market.

* 2016 Australian census data
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Ringwood's development scene and property market remain strong

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<a href="/developers/excelon-projects">Excelon Group's</a> Lothian Street development has been designed by <a href="/architects/kennedy-nolan-architects">Kennedy Nolan</a> to reference the area’s industrial past, with a warehouse style brick façade employed.

Located at <a href="/new-apartments/north-melbourne-vic-3051">100 Lothian Street, North Melbourne</a> the development comprises six individually designed townhouses and two apartments crafted in collaboration with some of Melbourne’s top local artisans, including family-owned local Victorian brick manufacturer Krause Bricks.

A revolution of sorts is currently underway with more architects returning to bricks to reimagine a built environment that has a more tactile expression and quality, a departure away from painted precast concrete which lacks neighbourhood character. More recently this has been evident in the <a href="/news/nightingales-magnificent-seven-on-show-for-the-first-time">Nightingale Village</a> project of which Kennedy Nolan are also involved, combining brick with other robust domestic materials which reflect the vernacular and material qualities of their context. 

<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/lothian_elev.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Lothian Street in elevation. Image: Kennedy Nolan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="299" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/lothian_elev.jpg?itok=hTCkiD38" title="Lothian Street in elevation. Image: Kennedy Nolan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Lothian Street in elevation. Image: Kennedy Nolan</figcaption></figure>Lothian Street's brick work is a nod to curves and craftmanship, while the brick colour has been custom blended to achieve an individual character that harks upon the past. Krause Bricks have been working closely alongside Kennedy Nolan to create an exterior brick form which sits comfortably within its North Melbourne streetscape.

A family business established in 1945, the Krause family has been building a successful, succession-based business and has evolved to meet the challenges, changing fortunes and fashions, of the Australian brick industry. With only 11 employees, Krause Bricks have three kilns that are firing constantly, outputting a staggering four million bricks per annum.

Grandson, Klynton Krause who works with father, Patrick, sees brick with new eyes. Klynton has been working alongside architects creating specific brick solutions and welcomes the challenges of a new market.

Bricks are indeed booming as industrial suburbs are being gentrified and architects are looking to provide buildings which draw on the qualities of industrial red brick warehouses. This is a far cry from from the golden ‘clinker brick’ homes of yesteryear, which are so synonymous with Australian suburbia.

Other collaborative design elements include decorative porcelain tiles used throughout the entranceways, designed and printed locally by Bonnie and Neil, timber door hardware from IN-TERIA and lighting from Daniel Emma. The use of local artisanal collaborators has ensured Lothian Street has an authentic, individual design quality that is more than just the sum of its parts.

<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/kna_arden_04.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Brick in all its glory at Lothian Street. Images: Kennedy Nolan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="268" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/kna_arden_04.jpg?itok=YWlQ_TQh" title="Brick in all its glory at Lothian Street. Images: Kennedy Nolan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Brick in all its glory at Lothian Street. Images: Kennedy Nolan</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Lothian Street is a love project for Excelon. The process of working with local collaborators to create something unique for North Melbourne has been a joy, and it’s exciting to see the project unfold as it has.

It is always our absolute pleasure working with local Australian manufacturers and artisans such as Krause Bricks. With their understanding of the medium, I believe local collaborators impart a sense of soul into a project as they are passionate about their craft.

- Kelvin Taing, Excelon Group Managing Director 
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We work alongside architects which is an opportunity to provide a true one off brick project.

There is no one size or colour fits all with bricks. It is very much a product designed to the specifications of every design and every location. Brick is now a material that is pushing design boundaries. It’s such a humble product and you see it everywhere but there is such innovation that can be had, I work with a lot of different architects. They can throw curveballs at you, and I love that challenge.

It enables us to watch the quality side and really achieve that Australian, handmade product.

Our secret to success is to welcome the challenges that come to us. I am focused on developing a truly unique bespoke building outcome with every Krause brick product.

- Klynton Krause
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Working with local manufacturers and artisans adds authenticity to our projects. Krause Bricks are a Victorian family business and their products are made from Victorian clay meaning that Lothian has a physical, economic and emotional relationship to its place. 

- Patrick Kennedy, Kennedy Nolan
</blockquote>
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Brick to the Future for Lothian Street

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The recently completed Clyde Mews is an environmentally focused community comprising six family-centric townhouses and two apartments. Designed by Six Degrees Architects for Excelon Group the project sets a new benchmark for inner city, medium density development. 

Located at 80 Clyde Street in Thornbury, the project is at the forefront of sustainable design and construction, with Excelon and its design team working alongside the independent Moreland Energy Foundation Limited (MEFL) to improve its sustainability credentials and minimize waste where possible.

<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/clydemews_ahutchison_stitched.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Clyde Mews employs recycled materials where possible. Images: Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="429" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/clydemews_ahutchison_stitched.jpg?itok=XuKwbWlj" title="Clyde Mews employs recycled materials where possible. Images: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Clyde Mews employs recycled materials where possible. Images: Alice Hutchison</figcaption></figure>The development repurposes materials from the previous dwellings which occupied the site, complemented by recycled timber, and locally sourced recycled bricks which were carefully selected. Each residence is equipped with energy and water efficient V-ZUG or Miele appliances, and living areas carpeted with durable 100% New Zealand wool carpet from Cavalier Bremworth.

Designed to foster a car-free lifestyle, Clyde Mews is located in close proximity to public transport, walking and cycling tracks, and within walking distance to local eateries, cafes, and boutiques, as well as amenity such as hospitals, childcare, playgrounds, markets, and sporting facilities.

<blockquote>
The project is a development of two traditional Thornbury housing blocks into medium density housing, and provides an alternative model to the usual car centric development of this type.

Instead a model of medium density living is delivered that that prioritises the development of community, shared amenity, sustainability and landscape.

The dwellings have been designed to maximise the site's orientation to provide energy and water efficient residences that are sustainable, comfortable and affordable.

- Six Degrees
</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/clydemews_ahutchison_-17.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Clyde Mews' communal gardens. 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/clydemews_ahutchison_-17.jpg?itok=Kkper-AQ" title="Clyde Mews' communal gardens. Image: Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Clyde Mews' communal gardens. Image: Alice Hutchison</figcaption></figure>The project is designed to allow residents to live easily without a car and each dwelling includes two wall mounted bike racks, however at least one on-site car space is offered per dwelling. Car spaces are situated around the perimeter of the project to maximize internal space within the site for pedestrian access and public and private open space positioned around a a central shared space. 

The communal garden has been designed to act as a shared backyard that contains seating and large planter boxes for communal gardening, including fresh fruit and vegetables for residents to enjoy. Extensive pergolas provide the framework for vines to form a lush canopy that will provide shade in summer, and will lose its leaves in winter allowing sun through to each residence.

Water efficiencies at Clyde Mews include a 30,000 litre underground water tank for toilet flushing and laundry. Other sustainable amenities include solar power, and passive heating and cooling systems have been incorporated throughout the design as well as the building oriented to maximize natural light with north-facing windows, and awnings in the living and dining areas to reduce heat gain from summer sun exposure.

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
Excelon are excited to have completed Clyde Mews, a project with incredibly strong sustainability credentials. We are committed to the Melbourne market and look forward to working alongside our industry friends to create a strong portfolio of sustainable, community-driven projects.

-  Kelvin Taing, Excelon Group Managing Director
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
We were thrilled to be involved with Clyde Mews. The project was conceived and designed to encourage a sense of community, and offer a new model for sustainable medium density housing. It’s a project at the vanguard of modern sustainable living in Melbourne.

- James Legge, Six Degrees Director
</blockquote>
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Six Degrees and Excelon combine for Clyde Mews

Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

Joel Robinson

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

Laurence Dragomir

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