The second&nbsp;in <a href="/">Apartments.com.au's</a> series taking a closer look at each one of <a href="/news/an-early-glimpse-of-nightingale-villages-first-buildings">Nightingale Village's</a> ensemble of seven buildings, is the&nbsp;<a href="/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> designed CRT+YRD.

As the moniker - chosen within Hayball&nbsp;via a naming competition -&nbsp;suggests, the design provides the building with an&nbsp;identity that is readily and easily understood, according to the architects.&nbsp;

To reinforce the importance of this feature, CRT+YRD has been designed from the inside out, with the courtyard centrally located, forming&nbsp;the heart of the building and becoming the symbol of the project.

This provides not only&nbsp;a unique response to the building's interior environment via open walkways on the upper levels but also improved resident amenity through solar access, and&nbsp;passive ventilation and surveillance.

Further, Hayball have designed the the communal space&nbsp;and the building as a whole to foster a sense of community which&nbsp;provides a platform&nbsp;for social interaction and engagement.

<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/crtyrd_hero.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Illustration of CRT + YRD's northern facade. Image: Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/crtyrd_hero.jpg?itok=T-yqB--6" title="Illustration of CRT + YRD's northern facade. Image: Hayball" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Illustration of CRT + YRD's northern facade. Image: Hayball</figcaption>
</figure>

CRT+YRD's&nbsp;material palette draws on&nbsp;the surrounding light industrial context by way of the use of&nbsp;off-form concrete, breeze block and brickwork&nbsp;to reinforce the street wall condition.&nbsp;

The upper levels are characterised by a much&nbsp;simpler palette of galvanised steel cladding, frames and grated sun shades providing a point of distinction&nbsp;between&nbsp;the street wall, while also mediating&nbsp;the strong rectilinear forms of the neighbouring Nightingale Village buildings.

<blockquote>
The proposal is a coherent extension of the principles established in the Nightingale Village master plan.

The central light court provides the formal mechanism to achieve this heightened sense of community, promoting excellent visual connection, light and ventilation between apartments. This well established model has a number of local precedents, including the Beverly Hills apartments in South Yarra designed and constructed by the architect and developer Howard Lawson between 1935 and 1936.

All apartment living areas have primary aspect to either Duckett St or the Mews. The majority of apartments feature at least 1 bedroom also addressing these orientations. Open walkways at each level expand at apartment entries and the lift creating gossip areas.

- Hayball Architect's Statement
</blockquote>

By beginning with the courtyard and designing with the&nbsp;resident experience at the forefront, Hayball have ensured that CRT+YRD's residents are able to connect and retreat throughout the day based on personal preference.&nbsp;

Landscaping, plants and shared garden spaces dispersed throughout the soften the austere exterior of the building, while also contributing to a healthy&nbsp;and vibrant community.

Planter boxes distributed throughout courtyard walkways, apartment private open space, and communal areas allow for&nbsp;further personalisation of their building.

Rather than designing for any particular lifestyle or demographic, Hayball has&nbsp;designed the apartments&nbsp;to provide residents with the flexibility to&nbsp;tailor their residences&nbsp;to&nbsp;suit their&nbsp;respective lifestyles.

<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/crtyrd_render.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The centrally located courtyard. Image: Hayball/Mr.P"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="576" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/crtyrd_render.png?itok=D9KBB5H0" title="The centrally located courtyard. Image: Hayball/Mr.P" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>The centrally located courtyard. Image: Hayball</figcaption>
</figure>

Bedrooms feature&nbsp;bay windows which allow&nbsp;residents to control the levels of privacy, shading, ventilation and acoustic separation via:

<ul>
	<li>Retractable external louvres</li>
	<li>High and low level openable sash windows</li>
	<li>Internal blind systems permitting variable levels of privacy and ventilation</li>
	<li>Bay sills as mediating zones for personalisation of the common walkway with plants and alike, or informal seating areas supporting interaction.</li>
</ul>

Additionally, the majority of apartments enable the building to accommodate residents&nbsp;of varying age and physical mobility.

Next up in the&nbsp;Nightingale&nbsp;Village series will be <a href="/architects/clare-cousins-architects">Clare Cousins Architects'</a> Nightingale CCA.

Editor's note: You can also listen to <a href="/guides/weekly-podcast-episode-30-hayballs-bianca-hung-talks-nightingale-village">Urban.com.au's interview with Hayball's Bianca Hung</a> on our weekly podcast, where we discuss the design process in greater detail.

Laurence Dragomir

Nightingale Village - Episode II: CRT + YRD 

<html><body>
The best landscape architecture projects in Victoria have been recognised at the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects’ (AILA) 2018 Victorian Landscape Architecture Awards.

The jury <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">reviewed projects from across Melbourne</a> and regional Victoria across 13 categories, with a total of 29 projects gaining recognition. The award winners were announced at an event hosted by AILA’s Victorian Chapter on earlier this evening.

Metropolitan local Government Councils dominated as clients of the winning projects, showing the importance of rejuvenating public spaces and setting a high standard of design. These include projects initiated by Brimbank City Council, City of Wyndham, City of Yarra, Frankston City Council, Glen Eira City Council, Hume City Council and Moonee Valley City Council.

Other notable projects taking home accolades include the Darebin Yarra Trail Link due to its excellent response to a complex location and the Point Nepean National Park Master Plan for its leading strategic thinking, community consultation and cultural focus.

<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/07-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/07-darebin_yarra_trail_link-emmacross.jpg?itok=3ioostNg" 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 AILA, this year saw a record number of entries, reinforcing the important role of landscape architecture in the state. 
Projects given Awards of Excellence and Landscape Architecture Awards will proceed to the National Awards with winners announced on Thursday 11 October as part of this year’s International Festival of Landscape Architecture.

A free exhibition showcasing all award-winning projects will be on display at RMIT Design Hub from 20 August 2018.

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
The rejuvenation of public and private spaces and a move towards integrated green infrastructure demonstrates the role that landscape architecture has in sustaining human health and well-being and the 
liveability of Melbourne.

The awards are a great way to recognise the outstanding projects in our state and their contribution to the public and respective communities.

-  Adrian Gray, AILA Victorian Chapter President
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
This year, the entries demonstrated not only the maturity of the profession but also investment in high-quality strategic and landscape design-led projects. We are fortunate to recognise an array of projects that enhance public spaces, engage with the community and exemplify enduring design.

- Bronwen Hamilton Jury Chair / Office of Victorian Government Architect.
</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/03-williamsreserve-andrewlloyd.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Williams Reserve by Hansen Partnership. Image: Andrew Lloyd"><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-williamsreserve-andrewlloyd.jpg?itok=tA5HokLu" title="Williams Reserve by Hansen Partnership. Image: Andrew Lloyd" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Williams Reserve by Hansen Partnership. Image: Andrew Lloyd</figcaption></figure><h2>The Winners</h2>

Civic Landscape category (Sponsored by Glascott Landscape &amp; Civil) 

Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>MADA West Courtyard | Glas Landscape Architects</li>
	<li>Pride of Melton | Outlines Landscape Architecture Pty. Ltd.</li>
	<li>Dawson Street Precinct Sunshine | Fitzgerald Frisby Landscape Architecture</li>
</ul>
Community Contribution category

Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>Livvi's Place Craigieburn | ASPECT Studios</li>
</ul>
Cultural Heritage category

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>Point Nepean National Park Master Plan | TCL (Taylor Cullity Lethlean) and Parks Victoria</li>
</ul>
Gardens category (Sponsored by Lawn Solutions Australia)

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>Earth Sciences Garden, Monash University | Rush Wright Associates</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>MPavilion 2017 | Tract Consultants</li>
	<li>Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre | Rush Wright Associates</li>
</ul>
Infrastructure category (Sponsored by ACO Australia)

 Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>Project: Darebin Yarra Trail Link | VicRoads Urban Design Team and VicRoads Structural Design Team</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>Project: Skeleton Creek Bridges | Site Office</li>
</ul>
Land Management category 

Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>The System Garden Masterplan | Glas Landscape Architects</li>
</ul>
Landscape Planning category (Sponsored by Austral)

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>Chain of Ponds - An Action Plan for Moonee Ponds Creek | Site Office</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>Project: Puffing Billy Master Plan | Tract Consultants</li>
</ul>
Play Spaces category  (Sponsored by Street Furniture)

Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>Project: Ballam Bumps Regional Playspace | Playce Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Booran Reserve Playspace | ACLA Consultants</li>
	<li> Mirambeena Park, Warralily, Armstrong Creek | GbLA</li>
</ul>
Parks and Open Space category 

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>Project: Alpine Better Places: Porepunkah | MDG Landscape Architects</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>Project: Williams Reserve, Richmond | Hansen Partnership</li>
</ul>
Research Policy and Communications category (Sponsored by WE-EF Lighting)

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>Urban Choreography: Central Melbourne 1985–, by Kim Dovey, Rob Adams and Ronald Jones (Melbourne University Press, 2018) | Jones &amp; Whitehead Pty Ltd, with City of Melbourne and University of Melbourne</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>Project: Monash University - Civil Engineering Hydraulics 'Living Lab' | ASPECT Studios</li>
	<li>Embracing the Asian Century, Landscape Architecture Australia | Jillian Walliss, Heike Rahmann, Ricky Ray Ricardo</li>
</ul>
Small Projects category (Sponsored by City of Melbourne)

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>Immigration Museum Activation Project | Rush Wright Associates</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>Project: Tarrawarra Abbey | ASPECT Studios</li>
	<li>Valley Lake Lookout | MCGREGOR COXALL</li>
</ul>
Tourism category  
Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>Project: Carnivores Trail (Predators Precinct) | Urban Initiatives</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>Project: Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing Master Plan | MCGREGOR COXALL</li>
</ul>
Urban Design category

Award of Excellence

<ul>
<li>Victoria Square, Kerang | Hansen Partnership</li>
</ul>
Landscape Architecture Award

<ul>
<li>Project: Geelong Laneways Precinct | Outlines Landscape Architecture Pty. Ltd.</li>
</ul>
Future Leader category

Commendation

<ul>
<li>Timothy D’Agostino, ASPECT Studios</li>
</ul>
President’s Award

<ul>
<li>Anne-Marie Pisani</li>
</ul>
Lead image: VCCC  by Rush Wright Associates, taken by Michael Wright
</body></html>

AILA Victorian Chapter awards 2018 winners announced

<html><body>
Following on from Apartments.com.au's in-depth look at the <a href="/news/the-rise-and-rise-of-melbournes-spencer-street">development activity along Spencer Street</a> on the edge of Melbourne's CBD, today we turn our attention to the development shaping one of Melbourne's renowned High Streets - Chapel Street.

The street which stretches through South Yarra, Prahran and Windsor before crossing Dandenong Road into St Kilda, has been previously characterised as a retail strip, but has struggled in recent years due to high rent sought by landlords which has in turn had an impact on the street's liveliness.

According to Stonnington Mayor, Councillor Steve Stefanopoulos, the City of Stonnington is excited about the private and public capital investment being injected into the Chapel Street precinct.

Chapel Street is currently undergoing massive growth and change, he says, with the State Government having commenced construction of the eastern portal of the Metro Tunnel. Redevelopment of the entrance to South Yarra Station (the busiest outside the CBD) and the construction of accessible trams stops out the front, will hopefully commence in the new year.

The South Yarra section of Chapel Street in particular has started to evolve with a more diverse mix of retail offerings and further introduction of food and beverage outlets. The construction slated over the next 3 years will have further impact on the street in the short term but will ultimately enhance and contribute to the street's vibrancy in the long term, according to Beller Commercial's Fred Nucara.

The projects which are due to have the greatest impact on the streetscape are highlighted below:

<h2>Capitol Grand </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/capitol_grand_redden_aug18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Capitol Grand beginning to make its mark on the corner of Chapel St and Toorak Rd. Images: Bates Smart | Urban member redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="264" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/capitol_grand_redden_aug18.jpg?itok=vHdqHT21" title="Capitol Grand beginning to make its mark on the corner of Chapel St and Toorak Rd. Images: Bates Smart | Urban member redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Capitol Grand beginning to make its mark on the corner of Chapel St and Toorak Rd. Images: Bates Smart | Urban member redden</figcaption></figure>LK Property's towering edifice is beginning to take shape on the corner of Chapel Street and Toorak Road, with the development's sinuous forms beginning to emerge from behind the construction screens as the first traces of glazing also begin to appear. After months in the ground constructing the basement levels, head contractor Multiplex is now well above the street on the dual tower development which will top pot at 50 and 10-storeys respectively.

<blockquote>
The 180m residential tower brings together three elliptical forms, ensuring that light and shadows play across its surface. The design creates an elegant, slender composition of dynamic character, changing with one’s viewpoint and the weather. The tower top is expressed differently by reducing the mass to create a unique iconic tower worthy of its landmark location.

- Bates Smart
</blockquote>

<h2>627 Chapel Street </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/627_chapel_before_and_after.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Before &amp; after - 627 Chapel Street. Images: Melbourne Acquisition | COX Architecture "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="335" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/627_chapel_before_and_after.jpg?itok=Irp42uPv" title="Before &amp; after - 627 Chapel Street. Images: Melbourne Acquisition | COX Architecture " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Before &amp; after - 627 Chapel Street. Images: Melbourne Acquisition | COX Architecture</figcaption></figure>Currently at planning, the 24-storey COX Architecture-designed office building would replace the current office building which was sold by Fridcorp to Goldfields in December last year.

Should it receive approval in its current guise, 627 Chapel street would rise to a height of 89m and provide a '3d ground plaza' setback from Chapel Street. 

<blockquote>
The design proposal for 627 Chapel Street takes the opportunity to make the most of this unique island site in Forrest Hill.

A 3m setback pushes the building back from Chapel Street, this allows for greater public space at street level and ensures that the Capitol remains visible on approach. The podium is defined by the green landscaped arbor - a permeable screen that wraps the building and connects through to the Daly Street landscaped street

- COX Architecture
</blockquote>

<h2>Jam Factory </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/newm9968jam-factory-stage-2ia01main-square.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of the Jam Factory's main square. Image: Floodslicer"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/newm9968jam-factory-stage-2ia01main-square.jpg?itok=183sbNDq" title="Artist's impression of the Jam Factory's main square. Image: Floodslicer" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of the Jam Factory's main square. Image: Floodslicer</figcaption></figure>Owner of the Jam Factory, Newmark Capital is free to proceed with its substantial redevelopment of the landmark site receiving planning approval. Under the approved plans prepared by Bates Smart, the landmark South Yarra site will be transformed it into a significant commercial hub supported by a network of retail laneways.

According to Bates Smart, the vision for the Jam Factory redevelopment is for a highly permeable site that is an extension of the local context.

<blockquote>
An ensemble of buildings will embody and reflect the site’s rich character, establishing a new commercial workplace, but also creating an activated space where the public can enjoy a variety of new hospitality venues.

The redevelopment has been designed to be open and inviting and will deliver a new elevated public realm for the community to enjoy. The precinct’s character provided inspiration for the design.

The existing materiality of the Jam Factory is characterised by solid, authentic materials and industrial rawness. The new façade will reflect the factory typology and structured design language. The public realm on the ground floor will incorporate laneways and a central courtyard and will act as an extension of the urban context and street network.

- Bates Smart
</blockquote>

<h2>671 Chapel Street</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/671_chapel_street.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="671 Chapel Street has approval in hand. Image: Architecton"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/671_chapel_street.jpg?itok=tfKzVRCI" title="671 Chapel Street has approval in hand. Image: Architecton" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>671 Chapel Street has approval in hand. Image: Architecton</figcaption></figure>Amended plans for a 21-storey residential tower at 671 Chapel Street were approved earlier this year, permitting 158 dwellings to be built replacing a single storey building.

The original application lodged with City of Stonnington during 2015 sought approval for a 30-storey building comprising 352 apartments, at an average of 12 apartments per floor. 

<h2>Esque - 649 Chapel Street</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/image10_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Site works are currently underway at Esque. Images: Valeo Construction | Mark Baljak"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="280" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_18.jpg?itok=nas5uwlg" title="Site works are currently underway at Esque. Images: Valeo Construction | Mark Baljak" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Site works are currently underway at Esque. Images: Valeo Construction | Mark Baljak</figcaption></figure>Bulk excavation and piling works commenced onsite in January of this year that will ultimately deliver 72 apartments across 20 floors on a narrow site along the northern reaches of Chapel Street.

Valeo Construction is at the helm of the Fender Katalidis-designed tower for developer Mitraland, with the core set to grace the South Yarra streetscape by year's end.

<h2>Aloft - 402-416 Chapel Street</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/aloft_streetview.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Aloft hotel will change the Chapel Street streetscape. Image: Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="308" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/aloft_streetview.jpg?itok=njyelKgC" title="The Aloft hotel will change the Chapel Street streetscape. Image: Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Aloft hotel will change the Chapel Street streetscape. Image: Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide</figcaption></figure>The stage is set for Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide to debut its Aloft brand in Melbourne, following the demolition and site clearing works in preparation of builder Crema Constructions taking occupation and commencing construction works on the 176-room hotel.

The hotel will anchor a mixed-use development located at 402 Chapel Street designed by international architect Tim Kobe of Eight Inc.

<h2>430-438 Chapel Street</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/430-438_chapel_street.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="430-438 Chapel Street will replace the 'huts' site in South Yarra. Image: Franze Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/430-438_chapel_street.jpg?itok=tr3FEcwJ" title="430-438 Chapel Street will replace the 'huts' site in South Yarra. Image: Franze Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>430-438 Chapel Street will replace the 'huts' site in South Yarra. Image: Franze Developments</figcaption></figure>Franze Developments' joint venture with development partner Sampieri Group would see South Yarra's 'huts' site transformed into an 8-storey mixed-use development designed by Jackson Clements Burrows.

The $55 million project will include the retention of the heritage facade on site, while also providing a new pocket park on Bray Street designed by Aspect Studios incorporating water sensitive design

<h2>What they say...</h2>

<blockquote>
We have developed a structure plan for the precinct entitled Chapel ReVision, which guides future development of the largest commercial precinct outside the CBD.

Council is also investing over $60m in its largest capital project in 160 years, converting the 10,000sqm car park behind Chapel Street, Prahran into a contemporary European-style plaza due to open in mid 2019.

- Cr Steve Stefanopoulos, Mayor of Stonnington
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
Chapel Street is at the bottom of a bell curve at the moment. These major developments within the precinct are detracting from the usual vibrancy, because of the inconvenience, noise and distraction of the construction.

On a positive note, these major infrastructure investments are scheduled for completion in 2019 and 2020.

- Fred Nucara, Director Beller Commercial
</blockquote>

For a full recap from Beller Commercial's Fred Nucara listen to our <a href="/guides/chapel-street-podcast-on-the-phone-with-beller-commercials-fred-nucara">podcast interview</a>.

Lead image: Jam Factory Redevelopment Bates Smart/Floodslicer
</body></html>

The changing face of Chapel Street, South Yarra

<html><body>
Covered briefly by <a href="/news/nightingales-magnificent-seven-on-show-for-the-first-time">Urban.com.au earlier this month</a>, Nightingale Village's ensemble of buildings have been created by architecture's equivalent of Marvel's The Avengers.

In the first of a series highlighting each of the seven buildings which comprise Brunswick's Nightingale Village, we take a look at Nightingale WOW designed by WOWOWA in tandem with Breathe Architecture.

Founded in 2011 by Monique Woodward, Andre Bonnice &amp; Scott Woodward, WOWOWA's team of nine is based out of a shopfront in Carlton North. 

<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/nightingale_wow.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nightingale WOW is based on a kit-of-parts approach. Image: WOWOWA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="666" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nightingale_wow.jpg?itok=rS6wI2G2" title="Nightingale WOW is based on a kit-of-parts approach. Image: WOWOWA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale WOW is based on a kit-of-parts approach. Image: WOWOWA</figcaption></figure>Occupying a corner site at 11 West Street adjacent to the Upfield bike corridor, Nightingale WOW's playfully colourful design is the result of an eight step process;

<ul>
<li>Step 1: Acknowledge the context is colourful &amp; of varied typologies ie Edwardian, Victorian, Warehouses, Art Deco, Federation, Ware Service etc.</li>
	<li>Step 2: Dream of creating a vertical neighbourhood</li>
	<li>Step 3: Research space frames - these provide the framework for individuality to sit within</li>
	<li>Step 4: Create a space frame for Nightingale WOW</li>
	<li>Step 5: Celebrate our interest in different housing typologies</li>
	<li>Step 6: Space frame + context</li>
	<li>Step 7: Create a Kit-of-Parts facade so that residents can identify their homes</li>
	<li>Step 8: Space frame and  Kit-of-Parts response to Design Development Overlay 18 (DDO18)</li>
</ul>
Further to this, the design team has sought to reduce the visual bulk of the development by imagining the massing as four vertical volumes separated by voids which expose vertical circulation and create a light courtyard, while also allowing for privacy and natural light.

The upper three levels are setback to reduce their visual impact to the street, while also creating a legible four-storey street-wall along West Street and the communal Mews - shared with Clare Cousins Architects' 12 Duckett Street.

Along the Upfield cycling corridor the ground floor is set-back an average of 2 metres to allow for pedestrian movement without impeding traffic along the bike path. This also creates 'protected pockets' for vegetation and dwell spaces.

<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/nightingale_wow_upfield_corridor.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Nightingale WOW as view along the Upfield bike corridor. Image: WOWOWA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="407" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nightingale_wow_upfield_corridor.jpg?itok=sD1GnvX2" title="Nightingale WOW as view along the Upfield bike corridor. Image: WOWOWA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Nightingale WOW as view along the Upfield bike corridor. Image: WOWOWA</figcaption></figure>Common amenities for the building's future residents are located on the rooftop and include shared laundry facilities, a productive garden and social spaces.

The Kit-Of-Parts approach to the space frame facade allows for each apartment to have its own unique expression and identity, drawing on the vibrant and eclectic local context.

Next up in the Nightingale Village series will be Hayball's CRT + YRD.
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Nightingale Village - Episode I: Nightingale WOW

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Following our coverage of Up Property's <a href="/news/up-property-pushes-ahead-with-morris-moor-master-plan">Morris Moor development</a> in Moorabbin earlier this year, Apartments.com.au caught up with Up Property Founder and Managing Director Adam Davidson to discuss his interest in property investment, site acquisition, progress on Morris Moor and Up Property's future ambitions.

With more than 18 years of property investment experience, he transitioned from his dentistry practice to follow his passion for investing full-time. As Founder and Managing Director, Adam leads the Up Property team, business operations and strategy. He is responsible for all aspects of acquisitions, and investor and stakeholder involvement.

According to Davidson, his vision was to create an integrated property development and investment business renowned for quality landmark projects.

<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/2.-gent9345_moorabbin-hq_e02_building-1_hero-corner_a1cmykr.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Morris Moor will see the adaptive re-use of the existing buildings on site. Image: Up Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="292" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2.-gent9345_moorabbin-hq_e02_building-1_hero-corner_a1cmykr.jpg?itok=mcFmmmd5" title="Morris Moor will see the adaptive re-use of the existing buildings on site. Image: Up Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Morris Moor will see the adaptive re-use of the existing buildings on site. Image: Up Property</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au: Making the switch from dental practice to property investment and development is a big shift - What brought this change about?

Adam Davidson: The change was brought about simply because of a drive to wake up each day and do something that I was truly passionate about. I worked the dental industry in a very successful private practice for over eight years and while I enjoyed what I was doing, especially the people I was working with, I was always searching for something else that I had greater passion for.

Over the years as a dentist I bought and sold a number of residential properties and slowly but surely  came to realise that my true passion was in property.

In the early days my weekends were spent almost exclusively at open houses and I found myself constantly researching new properties. Once I had acquired a number of commercial and residential properties I decided, with great enthusiasm but to be honest no real plan, to quit dentistry and focus full time on property investment and development.

Up Property was formally founded in 2008 and has since completed 36 projects combining a broad mix of residential and commercial developments, with in excess of 250 proposed dwellings in the pipeline as well as various commercial developments underway.

U: Up Property has developed and is developing a range of projects not only in Melbourne but also in Geelong. What is your strategy for site identification and acquisition?

AD: As a team, we are very opportunistic and approach each site on a case by case basis. We focus on properties that we feel we can add significant value to.  The properties we tend to acquire may seem too hard or less desirable to some due to issues with the sites, but have greater potential that can be unlocked through experience and problem solving.

We ultimately look to have a broad range of projects for our portfolio, ideally across a range of asset classes that can be developed and transformed into projects that provide greater amenity and have positive impact for the community in which the sites are located. A perfect example of this is the two latest acquisitions for Up Property, a standard residential block set to become architecturally designed townhomes and a 3,300 sqm approximate net lettable area (NLA) main road showroom facility, with surplus developable land.

We were attracted to Geelong because the local market was experiencing a downturn due to the well documented announcements in 2013 around Ford ceasing production in Geelong and the likely ramifications. We felt the underlying fundamentals of the property market were solid and saw investing in Geelong as a unique opportunity.  Over the past decade we have gained a great knowledge of the local market and forged valued relationships within Geelong that, despite the rapid growth Geelong has recently experienced, continues to make it an attractive market for us to invest.

Our strategy to unlock a site’s hidden potential is also evident at our Morris Moor development in Moorabbin. Many developers saw the property as purely land value and would have likely demolished the site, however by retaining and re-purposing the eight buildings we have been able to preserve and pay homage to the rich history and, in turn, transform the former Phillip Morris manufacturing facility into a dynamic urban destination for the local community, a new neighbourhood, an exciting place to work, play, eat and drink.

U: The Morris Moor development is, in many ways, very unique in that we very rarely see the adaptive re-use and re-purposing of office-warehouse structures in suburban Melbourne particularly the more modernist era. What influenced Up Property to work within the framework of the existing structures and not take a completely fresh approach.

AD: To us it was apparent from the first inspection. We saw great potential and value in retaining the original buildings of the former Phillip Morris site, each building has great structure and unique individual character. For that reason, rather than rebuilding and starting fresh, we made the decision to re-imagine the existing site and create a unique community focused development.

Despite this resulting in a more challenging pathway towards transforming the original buildings into the contemporary, industrially-inspired facade of Morris Moor, we feel we’ve been able to use the site’s existing features to create a new, unique master plan.

<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/morris_moor_-_fb_artist_impression_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Morris Moor's hospitality precinct. Image: Up Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="288" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/morris_moor_-_fb_artist_impression_0.jpg?itok=XIUUzzd6" title="Morris Moor's hospitality precinct. Image: Up Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Morris Moor's hospitality precinct. Image: Up Property</figcaption></figure>U: What were some of the challenges and opportunities of working within existing structures?

AD: Bringing older buildings up to comply with modern day standards and regulations can often add substantial costs and complexities to a project. This can only be mitigated by having an experienced, engaged and pro-active project team to quickly and effectively respond to any unforeseen circumstances. Regardless of these challenges, which were known to us upon committing to the project, our design aims to work with and celebrate the existing industrial architecture as much as possible, to create a location that is unique and distinct from typical suburban office environments.

Fundamentally, it is always a far simpler process to develop new buildings from the ground up as opposed to retrofitting existing buildings.

In retrofitting old buildings, you are dealing with areas and structures that were designed originally for a use that is completely different to what we’re looking to achieve now. For example, the change from primarily warehousing and manufacturing use to a broad mix of uses including office, childcare, retail and hospitality to name a few.

Further to this, all new buildings must be made safe and compliant to current day regulations. Not to say the buildings were not safe and compliant previously, they simply need to achieve a different standard in today’s terms. These items can add up and add to the complexity of the overall design.

U: There has also generally been a preference to redevelop these types of sites - the former Sigma site in Clayton South is an example of this - into residential. 

AD: Morris Moor sits within the Moorabbin Business and Industrial precinct. Even though it borders the existing residential neighbourhood, the current zoning and planning controls over the property do not allow for residential development meaning this was not a consideration in our strategy. Council have been extremely supportive to date in our master plan as it exists today and support the commercial re-development of this iconic site as a key driver to support the regeneration of the Moorabbin Business and Industrial precinct.

This said, the fact that this project sits adjacent to a large residential catchment of the bayside suburbs greatly influenced our master plan to develop Morris Moor into a multi-use community to work, play, eat and drink. The existing layout of the site inspired our plan to unify the individual buildings and connect the spaces within to create a modern commercial and social campus.

U: Did you identify a commercial and co-working suburban hub as a gap in the market with the residential market being somewhat over saturated at this point?

AD: Instinctively we felt that the middle ring suburbs held an underlying demand for satellite co-working spaces which is currently under-serviced. There are so many operators fighting for space in traditional office locations, such as the Melbourne CBD and city fringe however, business owners and employees are continuously looking to live and work in close proximity and trade the time spent in the car or on the train with time at home with the family. Young businesses wanting the flexibility to work closer to home and avoid the commute to the city. These local business operators were seeking a more flexible arrangement as opposed to within a traditional office on a long-term lease agreement. We noted the rise of such spaces within other suburban business parks (e.g. Caribbean Park and Chadstone).

Through the support of Kingston council, we have been connected to several local community groups, small businesses and individuals who are very keen to see professional, well-coordinated and managed co-working spaces within the precinct. This provides us with further confidence that demand is there.

Upon taking ownership of the site in May last year, we continued to receive overwhelming interest from different businesses looking for opportunities beyond that of a typical office precinct – from gymnasiums and coffee roasters to recreational facilities and childcare centres.

These conversations, whether through council or the local community, have helped shape what Morris Moor is today - a unique business campus that offers a range of uses to support the office workers on-site as well as, provide the local residential catchment with a convenient place to eat and drink.

U: Up Property has engaged Genton and Techne as architects on the project, focusing on the working spaces and lifestyle hubs respectively. What influenced Up Property to engage these two practices?

AD: Both Genton and Techne are dynamic and fresh architecture teams with experience that aligns with our design led principles. Genton helped to design the visionary masterplan behind Morris Moor that interprets the existing buildings and landscaping, while Techne have assisted with the development of the hospitality precinct by introducing a proposed tenancy mix of different uses for the three central buildings including restaurant, coffee roastery and cafe, brewery, distillery, wine bar, convenience store, florist, event function spaces and more.  

U: How is the Morris Moor project progressing and when is the expected completion date?

AD: The project is progressing really well. We have already leased over 12,000 sqm of space, with our first two tenants having commenced their leases on-site and secured our first office tenancy, a child care operator and we’re in substantial negotiations with some key anchor tenants for the hospitality precinct such as a brewery, coffee roaster and health and wellness offerings, who are interested in coming on board to create an urban destination that will be a catalyst for the inevitable gentrification of the area.

We currently have our permits in place with construction having started on the office building due to be completed Q1, 2019.  

Our next phase of construction began this month, in which the 5,000 sqm corner office building is being revitalised with a new facade, lobby and complete internal refurbishment, creating premium office spaces for new exciting businesses to occupy. The surrounding common areas, landscaping and car parks will undergo full re-development.

<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/building01_-_lobby_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image of the new lobby for the soon to be revamped corner building. Image: Up Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/building01_-_lobby_0.jpg?itok=dYkNbbbt" title="Image of the new lobby for the soon to be revamped corner building. Image: Up Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image of the new lobby for the soon to be revamped corner building. Image: Up Property</figcaption></figure>U: And finally, what is coming up on the horizon for Up Property?

AD: Some may say that for a team of our size, Morris Moor should be more than enough to occupy us for the immediate term! To the contrary, we’re always on the lookout for new and different opportunities that align with our style and speciality. Our team love being challenged and relish in solving difficult and interesting problems.

We have already acquired several strategic residential and commercial properties over the last few years that we are planning on, or currently in the midst of developing in a similar way to that of Morris Moor.

Recently we acquired a number of unique and unconventional commercial sites within Geelong CBD that require significant re-positioning in the market. This includes our development on Little Malop Street which is currently being converted from a dis-used retail operation into a modern office building which has been 100% pre-leased to tenant’s the Geelong Advertiser &amp; Barwon Health.

We also acquired the former CSIRO site off the Australian Federal Government, a 6.2ha site destined to become a new community within the heart of an established neighbourhood within Geelong. This will be re-zoned and transformed into a large master-planned community, likely to yield in excess of 250 dwellings.

While the market has been quite difficult in recent times to acquire new sites on attractive terms, we continue to be ready should a new opportunity present itself.
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Q&A with Up Property's Adam Davidson

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The Victoria Racing Club (VRC) and its project partners have achieved a significant milestone with practical completion of its new $128 million Club Stand at Flemington Racecourse.

The eye catching five-level Club Stand designed by Bates Smart represents the 10th grandstand to be built at Flemington since 1865 and was completed by Multiplex on schedule, in time for this year's Melbourne Cup Carnival.

The ‘petal’ projections which form the perimeter of the Club Stand at each floor are the defining feature of Bates Smart's design and were constructed using 90 precast panels each weighing up to 30 tonnes.

Bates Smart also completed the interiors of each of the 17 spaces within the Club Stand with a timeless palette applied to offer the venues a unique and diverse personality for all Members’ to enjoy while respecting the heritage and the spirit of the famed race track and its festivities during the Melbourne Cup Carnival.

<blockquote>
The completion of The Club Stand marks one of the most exciting times in the VRC’s history and we look forward to officially opening it to VRC Members and their guests in full for the first time on AAMI Victoria Derby Day.

We congratulate Multiplex on its success in bringing Bates Smart’s vision for The Club Stand to life. The Club Stand is a statement venue that will change event experiences forever and become the setting for the next generation of racegoers to enjoy racing differently.

- Amanda Elliott, VRC Chairman
</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/the_club_stand_july_2018_credit_pat_scala_for_racing_photos_3_crop.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The VRC's new Club Stand is now completed save for a few finishing touches. Image: Pat Scala"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="355" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_club_stand_july_2018_credit_pat_scala_for_racing_photos_3_crop.jpg?itok=Xsj024oz" title="The VRC's new Club Stand is now completed save for a few finishing touches. Image: Pat Scala" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The VRC's new Club Stand has achieved practical completion. Image: Pat Scala</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au spoke to Bates Smart's Kristen Whittle and Jeff Copolov on the various aspects of the design and some of the key driver which have influenced the final outcome.

Urban.com.au: What was the brief from the VRC for the design of the new Club Stand?

Kristen Whittle: Before it became a detailed brief, the fundamental brief was to create a new type of grand stand for the VRC which would greatly enhance the hospitality offer at Flemington but also to provide a flagship building that would celebrate both the heritage and beauty of Flemington and create an icon for the VRC. 

U: Good quality architecture often draws on its context to produce a site specific response. The new VRC Club Stand achieves this by drawing inspiration from Flemington's rose garden beds. How do you take a simple idea and produce an architectural response that has an elegant quality without the novelty or kitsch-ness?

KW: The thoughtful and elegant design takes inspiration from Flemington’s iconic rose garden beds creating a very strong sense of place and one which is very particular to the gardens. When you see the Spring Racing Carnival it's the people that make the place, so the gardens provide the frame within which the people move.

We studied people movement, membership movement, back-of-house, front-of-house movement to understand how it all works. What became immediately obvious through that analysis was that people at the Spring Racing Carnival are so resplendent that they deserve to have a place to frame themselves and so they became the exhibit and are almost as important as the horses when it comes to defining the event both nationally and globally. 

We wanted the grandstand to celebrate the movement, the promenading of the people during the course of the day - the horse racing itself only accounts for a small percentage of time - so we analysed what people do before and after, and the (food and beverage offering) and outside activities are very important in creating pockets of space where people can congregate, intermingle and celebrate the races.

So the grandstand brief that eventuated out of the analysis was for a far greater amount of indoor space. The indoor space should open out to all the outdoor space and interact with it. There should be flexibility in the seating, so we chose bench seating as opposed to single seating, and from within the stand there should be an ability to stand up and see the race unfold in front of you.

As a result, the cross-section of the stadium became fundamentally important so that the indoor venues were higher than the outdoor seating. Each bar and restaurant has an outdoor deck which is very particular to those venues, and the building slopes inwards like a hill in cross-section so that each tier as you move up the building, becomes more prestigious. This is then finished off with a roof deck which is serviced by two outdoor bars and two kitchens which will provide outdoor food and beverage opportunities. In the middle of all that there is a large scale indoor-outdoor exhibition-esque flexible restaurant which means that it can be used throughout the year not just on racing day. 

What is also pertinent as to why we have shaped the building in the way that we have is it forms a front door entry statement and is in your line of sight as you're coming in from the train station, so it really forms the centrepiece for the whole track.

U: The new Club Stand is both impressive in its architectural expression, and provides a contrast to the existing stand yet is still in many ways very restrained and has a timeless quality about it. Does this type architectural approach ensure that the building doesn't date and will still be very much relevant 20-30 years from now? 

KW: That's a good question and an important question which is very central to our thinking, that we needed to have a building that functionally speaking was flexible and moving forward was adaptable and provided an armature or structure that allowed for any change in circumstance. 

The 10 metre column grid set in from the outdoor glazing was critical to providing sight lines and also produces a very horizontal expression to the building. The white horizontal bands which sit below the glazing are the areas which accommodate the services, and the large scale shades also project from there.

The idea of the white was to contrast against the gardens. White architecture works very well against a garden backdrop and we always wanted to bring the garden up into the grandstand and so what you have on the ground and first floors is the gardens literally wrap up and around the building. 

We saw the building as a future heritage building rather than just a mere piece of architecture, and we acknowledged that we were demolishing a nationally heritage listed building and so the big argument we put to the Heritage Council was that we were producing a future heritage and so the building needed to be strong, appropriate and of a high quality. Rather than stylistically overtly denoting today's style or fashion.

I think what distinguishes it is the function of the building, the heightened functionality of the building that generated the form as opposed to being an artificial gesture. It is very much the result of a functionally driven form making exercise.

U: The new club stand has a very light and transparent quality about it, but how do you balance the need for natural daylight and ensuring maximum outlook while also balancing the needs of sustainable design?

KW: It's a very environmentally conscious building and we used the horizontal sun shades to be able to employ very clear glazing - which is a triple laminated glazing which means that it's very transparent and open in its appearance and provides very clear colour rendition of the horses out on the track. 

The challenge technically speaking is that you have a very tall floor to floor in the grandstand and it's very difficult to get long pieces of glass which are triple laminated without having what's called 'rollaway' which occurs when the glass itself warps through the cooling process. So we had to ensure the manufacturing process removed all from the glass and more particularly the edges of the glass which are prone to wobbling. The last thing you want is to be looking out towards the finishing line and all of a sudden the horse disappears due to rollaway. 

U: Are there any particular aspects of the design or spaces which really excite you or have a special quality?

KW: There's two things which I think will really shout out to people. The first is the rooftop experience and the fact that there's not really many places in Australia where you can be right at the top of a building for a sporting event, which is really driven by hospitality and customer experience. I think the roof top garden will become very precious in the same way that the member's lawn has become arguably the most precious element of the current members' experience.

The other one is and I think everyone would understand that during the Spring Racing Carnival, the importance of the Melbourne Cup means there's often an aerial shot of the VRC and Flemington in relation to the Melbourne skyline. And I think what people are going to see in the future is a very strong and interesting shapely building with a big VRC logo ontop of the canvas roof which will form a new iconic statement.  

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/284085972" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe>

<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://vimeo.com/284085972">The new Club Stand, Victoria Racing Club</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/batessmart">Bates Smart</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.

Urban.com.au: The success of a building's interior relies heavily on a well designed shell, particularly when discussing the longevity of a building. A good shell generally remains largely unchanged while the interiors often tend to change in response to trends over time. What consideration was given to the idea of longevity in the interior design of the spaces and choice of materials? 

Jeff Copolov: That's a really good question because it was very much the defining starting point - the strategic approach to how you dealt with what is primarily a series of food and beverage offerings, and as we know food and beverage trends change, the Club's needs change and we're hoping the Club Stand is around for another 100 years and so we were very mindful of allowing elements to change over time.

Our approach was to ensure the architectural language of the exterior was very clearly defined and so internally the approach was to treat the fit out or the elements within those fit outs almost like a stage set that could be inserted into the preceding shell - if you think about a theatre within the shell - and therefore they had some significant rules about that.

The principle ceilings which are the curved white ceiling planes that flow from the outside in, needed to be retained and needed to be totally legible. Any decorative elements that were unique to any specific interior needed to float or be disengaged from those ceilings .

All of the perimeter columns were always to be left white and never treated in a different finish and if they were incorporated into any of the food and beverage elements, their legibility needed to remain intact. Sometimes we wrapped seating around them but the columns still remained white. 

We very much created a shell that was legible and that the base building materials were consistent across all levels such as lift lobbies, toilets, core linings, escalator linings and all had a simple and unique palette.  

So common areas were clearly defined as one unique palette, base building shell was another and then our interior fit out could have a range of quirky and unique personalities which is what the client's response was.

U: Light is often spoken about in the design of interior spaces as a material in and of itself. How important was natural daylight in the design of the spaces and how did it inform the design?

JC: First and foremost the spaces are there on race day and unlike a lot of food and beverage outlets where you design predominantly for day and night, that was equally important but even moreso daylight was fundamental because  race days at Flemington are day time events, but we were conscious that one day there might be night racing but we ensured that day light  was the principle driver for selecting colour and that we used warm light for our artificial lighting.

Because of the very nature of maximising views and due to our floor to ceiling full height glazing and the panorama and outlook across the track that it provides, we knew we were going to have an enormous amount of daylight and that our interiors would be formed by that bright light quality and there are no window coverings. In most food and beverage outlets you would need to be very conscious of that, so although it provided us with some beautiful ambience it also created some technical requirements with sun shading, window shading, fade resistance and all of those issues.   

U: The views from within the Club Stand are one of its greatest assets. How did the idea of views manifest in terms of the internal planning of program and the design of the spaces themselves?

JC: If you take a typical cross-section and let's say the glass is on the left and the core is on the right, we transition from floor to ceiling glass with limited amount of built environment up against the glass so that if people are standing up against the glass at the most exciting part of the race, they'll be drawn towards that, so we needed to ensure that lines of sight are retained.

Often we would place low lounge seating in corners where the diagonal view, because if you're looking at the track the horses come from the left and move to the right - we race in an anti-clockwise direction here in Victoria - so the finishing post is always on the right of the venue as you face out. We made sure that our seating to the right hand side was kept generally low - so that if you were within the food and beverage portion of the restaurant, the lower dining tables would be to the right and the higher bar seating would be located to the left side. 

In the case of the members dining area, where we have a large number of people to seat, we used the extra ceiling height to in fact ramp up a portion of the dining room, so that if you were further to the back, you were sitting the equivalent of two steps higher than the immediately adjacent dining area.

We created deliberate tiering and in Kristen's design of the architecture of the building, the interior is always a good height above its corresponding external circulation and seating. So that even if you had people seated inside and then outside on the bleachers, you're actually looking out over people's heads. 

U: And finally, are there any particular aspects of the design or spaces which really excite you? 

JC: I think the biggest challenge for us was the demolition of what was a much loved stand, that served the club well for nearly 100 years and in doing so, we're mindful of the destruction of some of the history of that club.  

At the same time, the club and ourselves wanted a very contemporary building that was forward looking and would take the club forward for the next 100 years but without losing some of the qualities.  

The challenge then became how do you maintain and ensure the history of a club that is founded on a rich tradition isn't lost while creating new built form? The memories of members are associated largely with the old stand and I thought we had a responsibility to craft a new memory, but take along some of the aspects of the past without it being cheesy, but was also contemporary. And I think we achieved that.  

<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/281718499" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe>

<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://vimeo.com/281718499">The new Club Stand, Victoria Racing Club</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/batessmart">Bates Smart</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.

Lead Image Credit: Pat Scala. (L-R) Graham Cottam (Multiplex), Kristen Whittle (Bates Smart), Amanda Elliott (VRC Chariman), Jeff Copolov (Bates Smart)
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Bates Smart celebrates the completion of the new Club Stand for the Victorian Racing Club 

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Co-working provider CLIK Collective is introducing co-warehousing and co-working to Up Property's Morris Moor development in Moorabbin, housed within a 6,000 sqm space which has bee designed to meet the requirements of local online retailers.

Formerly known as Kensington Collective, CLIK Collective provides businesses with flexible spaces, services and resources within a diverse community-focused environment which nurtures growth.

CLIK Collective developed the co-warehousing concept after identifying co-working spaces for e-commerce retailers, that also included tailored warehousing spaces, loading bays, photography studios and showroom facilities, did not exist.

<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/up_property_click_collective_morris_moor_render_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Up Property and CLIK Collective have combined for co-warehousing at Morris Moor. Image: CLIK Collective"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="319" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/up_property_click_collective_morris_moor_render_1.jpg?itok=8kjUkx2e" title="Up Property and CLIK Collective have combined for co-warehousing at Morris Moor. Image: CLIK Collective" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Up Property and CLIK Collective have combined for co-warehousing at Morris Moor. Image: CLIK Collective</figcaption></figure>CLIK Collective Founder and Director Harry Kempler, explains Morris Moor's attractiveness for their establishing a co-warehousing space, lay in its accessible location and onsite amenities.

<blockquote>
Morris Moor is in a well-connected location and will be surrounded by amenities including cafes, childcare, beautifully landscaped gardens and a publicly accessible courtyard, making it a valuable site for individuals and businesses based in Melbourne’s South East to launch and grow their e-commerce offering 
Collaborative economies are making their way into the logistics industry by offering unique and clever solutions that are both efficient and environmentally responsive.

We’re passionate about small businesses and co-working environments and look forward to supporting local online retailers on a large scale and for the opportunities Morris Moor will bring to the local community

- Harry Kempler, CLIK Collective Founder and Director
</blockquote>

CLIK Collective plans to provide purpose-built spaces, facilities and services that will offer an accessible, professional and collaborative environment for e-commerce businesses based in Melbourne’s South East, assisting in the development of more than 60 new innovative businesses for the Moorabbin community.

<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/morris_moore_splash_slideshow_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of Morris Moor. Image: Up Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="348" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/morris_moore_splash_slideshow_3.jpg?itok=80dgrTSQ" title="Artist's impression of Morris Moor. Image: Up Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of Morris Moor. Image: Up Property</figcaption></figure><a href="/news/qa-with-up-propertys-adam-davidson">Speaking to Urban.com.au</a>, Up Property's Adam Davidson outlined the company's strategy behind the provision of co-working space within the Morris Moor development.

<blockquote>
Instinctively we felt that the middle ring suburbs held an underlying demand for satellite co-working spaces which is currently under-serviced. There are so many operators fighting for space in traditional office locations, such as the Melbourne CBD and city fringe however, business owners and employees are continuously looking to live and work in close proximity and trade the time spent in the car or on the train with time at home with the family.

Young businesses wanting the flexibility to work closer to home and avoid the commute to the city. These local business operators were seeking a more flexible arrangement as opposed to within a traditional office on a long-term lease agreement. We noted the rise of such spaces within other suburban business parks (e.g. Caribbean Park and Chadstone).

Through the support of Kingston council, we have been connected to several local community groups, small businesses and individuals who are very keen to see professional, well-coordinated and managed co-working spaces within the precinct. This provides us with further confidence that demand is there.

- Adam Davidson, Up Property Founder and Managing Director
</blockquote>

CLIK Collective Moorabbin is one of four businesses already confirmed for Morris Moor and is due to open this month, offering secure warehouse spaces ranging from 2 sqm through to 300 sqm.
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CLIK Collective brings co-warehousing to Moorabbin's Morris Moor

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On this week's episode I catch up with an old friend in <a href="https://www.figr.com.au/">Figr Architecture</a>'s Michael Artemenko and discuss his experiences during the course of his architectural career and how these ultimately helped him in founding Figr along with co-director Adi Atic. 

Michael and I briefly reminisce about our time working together at Kerstin Thompson Architects, which is where we met and the influence this had on both our careers.

We also discuss the challenges of establishing your own firm and the massive learning curve of such a decision and ensuring a good office culture is fostered in which staff look forward to coming into the office and aren't required to do unnecessary overtime.

The value architects add to projects and how the industry could do more to promote this also rates a mention, with Michael citing Open House as a great initiative, and one which Figr have found to be extremely beneficial in communicating their work to the public.

<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/492680919&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&amp;visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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Weekly Podcast: Episode 29 - Figr Architecture's Michael Artemenko

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This week on our weekly podcast I sit down with <a href="/architects/cht-architects">CHT Architects</a> Director David Carabott and Associate Directors Mark Spraggon and Felipe Strahovsky to discuss the changing landscape of the Melbourne apartment market, and their collective experience and observations working on multi-residential projects.

As part of a wide ranging discussion we cover topics such as;

<ul>
<li>the impact of Better Apartment Standards (BADS) on apartment design and affordability the need to develop more diverse housing typologies to cater to a wider cross-section of society including families;</li>
	<li>the perception of apartment living and how it has gradually evolved over the last few years;</li>
	<li>the need to unlock the inner and middle ring suburbs for development, rather than relying on the Melbourne CBD, Southbank and Docklands to do all the heavy work and;</li>
	<li>we also briefly touch on Fishermans Bend and the work CHT have undertaken within the urban renewal area, and how critical </li>
</ul>
Listen below to find out more and remember to subscribe via Soundcloud or iTunes. Also in case you missed it here's <a href="https://soundcloud.com/urbancomau/weekly-podcast-episode-26">Episode 26 with Alastair Taylor.</a>

<iframe allow="autoplay" frameborder="no" height="300" scrolling="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/486204447&amp;color=%23ff5500&amp;auto_play=false&amp;hide_related=false&amp;show_comments=true&amp;show_user=true&amp;show_reposts=false&amp;show_teaser=true&amp;visual=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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Weekly Podcast: Episode 27 - CHT Architects discuss Melbourne's changing apartment landscape

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The long-awaited winning design for the <a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-designs-revealed-at-future-cities-symposium">"Southbank by Beulah" </a>design competition has been revealed - The Green Spine - a collaborative effort between UN Studio and COX Architecture.

Set to become Australia’s tallest tower at 356.2m, the winner was announced following an exhaustive six-month global search, which involved six of the world’s best architectural firms; BIG, Coop Himmelb(l)au, MAD Architects, MVRDV, OMA and UN Studio.

All partnered with local firms to propose varying and dramatic designs. UN Studio and COX Architecture's scheme is now likely to head toward planning.

<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/uns_green-spine_view-aerial.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Green Spine in the Southbank skyline. Image: UN Studio and COX"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="580" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/uns_green-spine_view-aerial.jpg?itok=cd6BtLfL" title="The Green Spine in the Southbank skyline. Image: UN Studio and COX" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Green Spine in the Southbank skyline. Image: UN Studio and COX</figcaption></figure>Beulah International purchased the 6,061 sqm BMW Southbank site in 2017, with a vision to create an exemplar mixed-use development that would include retail, hotel, residential, commercial, cultural and public spaces of international standard. 

The six shortlisted designs were revealed at the Future Cities Symposium last month, and judged by seven highly regarded jury members including key figures from Australia’s architectural community and chaired by Victorian Government Architect Jill Garner.

To view each of the design entries in greater detail, please click through the links below to their respective articles on Apartments.com.au:

<ul>
<li><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-un-studio-cox-architecture-the-green-spine">UN Studio + COX - The Green Spine</a></li>
	<li><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-mvrdv-woods-bagot-the-stack">MVRDV + Woods Bagoot - The Stack</a></li>
	<li><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-mad-architects-elenberg-fraser-the-urban-tree">MAD Architects + Elenberg Fraser - The Urban Tree</a></li>
	<li><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-big-fk-the-lanescraper">BIG + Fender Katsalidis - The Lanescraper</a></li>
	<li><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-coop-himmelblau-architectus-the-beulah-propeller-city">Coop Himmelb(l)au + Architectus - The Beulah Propeller City</a></li>
	<li><a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-oma-conrad-gargett-the-base">OMA + Conrad Gargett - The Base</a></li>
</ul>
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Southbank by Beulah: The winning design for Australia's tallest tower revealed

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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