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This Tuesday the City of Melbourne's Councillors will consider a plan for a new 5,000 sqm urban park for Southbank - the municipality’s most densely populated suburb - which has the least amount of public open space per person in the City of Melbourne.

The $3.5m Boyd Park Concept Plan aims to "create a backyard" for Southbank residents and to provide flexible and playful spaces that support a range of activities. The concept plan builds on Boyd’s former use as a school and current function as a vibrant community hub.

A draft concept plan for the park was presented to the community from 23 November to 22 December 2017, with a community workshop held on 7 December 2017 followed by presentations to key stakeholders and the creation of a summer pop-up. 
 

<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/boyd_park_plan.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The City of Melbourne's concept plan for Boyd Park. Image : City of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="743" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/boyd_park_plan.jpg?itok=zaFhnIuh" title="The City of Melbourne's concept plan for Boyd Park. Image : City of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The City of Melbourne's concept plan for Boyd Park. Image : City of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>As part of the plan, a future development site at 132 Kavanagh Street will be tendered with the development footprint being reduced in size from 2,356 to 1,834 sqm to improve park access, with an additional condition that any new development should not interfere with the new park.

An off-lead dog area was also high on the community’s wish list for Southbank and CoM are looking at an adjoining area that may be appropriate for this use.

In 2007, the City of Melbourne acquired the site of the former Boyd School located on City Road near Kings Way and has continued working towards the goal of creating a vibrant community hub.

<blockquote>
As the city grows rapidly, we know that more than 80 per cent of residents live in apartments so open space will continue to be absolutely critical to maintain liveability.

This plan is a clear case of Southbank residents and businesses asking for community facilities and the City of Melbourne getting on to deliver it. The new park will include an interactive, age-appropriate playground with facilities for young families, a communal garden and leafy grassed places for people to relax alongside improved pedestrian and cycle connections.

For active sports such as basketball, we’re exploring options to further expand the size of the park by utilising the nearby Kings Way under-croft: an innovative and exciting idea that we are looking forward to speaking with the community about.

This urban park will be a much-needed backyard for Southbank residents. It has been a long time in the making and will add an important recreational focal point for the local community.

Southbank’s 22,000 strong residential population and its 50,000 daily workforce are expected to double in the next decade, placing even more pressure on the area’s limited open spaces.

These requirements will ensure that the design for the adjoining development is undertaken in a manner that adds value to the urban park and overcomes many of the challenges experienced by the community who have outgrown the existing facilities.

- Arron Wood, Acting Lord Mayor
</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/kingsway_undercroft_concept.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="CoM is exploring options to expand the size of the park into the adjacent Kings Way under-croft space. Image : City of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="705" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/kingsway_undercroft_concept.jpg?itok=Nx280JtZ" title="CoM is exploring options to expand the size of the park into the adjacent Kings Way under-croft space. Image : City of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>CoM is exploring options to expand the size of the park into the adjacent Kings Way under-croft space. Image : City of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>The City of Melbourne is preparing documents for the public tender of the private development site at 132 Kavanagh Street. Strict conditions will require the successful bidder to deliver additional community facilities for the Boyd Hub, as well as the inclusion of affordable housing and a high green star rating in their development.

Demolition of the old classroom building to the rear of Boyd Hub will commence in May with construction on the new park expected to commence in August this year.
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Laurence Dragomir

City of Melbourne's Concept Designs for Boyd Park revealed

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As reported in <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/business/companies/cbus-set-to-swoop-on-1b-development-site-20180227-p4z1zs">The Age late last month</a> speculation is growing that developer Cbus Property is leading the charge to acquire a combined development site at 140-150 Queen Street and 27 McKillop Street.

This would follow what would appear to be a pre-emptive purchase of a neighbouring site at 423 Bourke Street, which an 11-storey office block currently occupies.

Combined all three sites would result in a approx. 3,000 sqm development site capable of accommodating a base Gross Floor Area of 54,000 sqm under the 18:1 Floor Area Ratio currently permitted in the Central City Zone.

With all this in mind, we at Apartments.com.au have decided to revisit <a href="/news/development-scenario-140-150-queen-street">an earlier study</a> on the potential development opportunity of the sites sans 423 Bourke Street from late last year.

The piece also provides a brief history of the site and the protracted legal battle between adjoining owners CEL Australia (the now defunct Tower Melbourne) and Colonial Range (140 Queen Street + 27 McKillop Street).

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/diagram_03-01_0.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Previous UM study from November 2017"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="294" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/diagram_03-01_0.png?itok=PRpCJD-E" title="Previous UM study from November 2017" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Previous UM study from November 2017</figcaption></figure>Revisiting the development potential of the site, I decided to change tact from the previous study and work on the premise of achieving a similar height development to Tower Melbourne's 226m of height.

The expanded site area allowed for a re-orientation of commercial floor plates and the ability to provide a north facing park along the Queen Street frontage which ties into the surrounding laneway network.

A mixed-use building of 226m and 62-storeys was achieved providing a statement building to the corner which extends beyond the heights of the under construction 405 Bourke (39-storeys / 161m), 385 Bourke Street (43-storeys / 169m) and ANZ Gothic (37-storeys / 162m).

<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/140-150_queen_proposal_driagram.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Indicative Development Proposal for consolidated site."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="432" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140-150_queen_proposal_driagram.png?itok=6j-XX9W0" title="Indicative Development Proposal for consolidated site." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Indicative Development Proposal for consolidated site.</figcaption></figure>Programme breakdown:

<ul>
<li>1,000m2 park fronting Queen Street</li>
	<li>2,950m2 Sky Park at across levels 26 &amp; 27.</li>
	<li>Ground floor retail </li>
	<li>42-storeys of commercial office space (49,265 m2 GFA)  with floor plates varying from 1,475 - 1,575m2</li>
	<li>26-storeys of hotel (or residential)</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/140-150_queen_program_diagram.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Breakdown of building program"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="432" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140-150_queen_program_diagram.png?itok=V4ptcaft" title="Breakdown of building program" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Breakdown of building program</figcaption></figure>A development of this scale would result in an overall Gross Floor Area of 78,760m2 and an FAR of 26.25:1. This would require a Floor Area Uplift (FAU) of 8:1 or 24,760m2 which represents an additional 44% of floor area.

This breakdown is reflected in the diagram below. To achieve this, a number of public benefits would be required. These are covered by the provision of commercial floor space, public open space, the Sky Park, and the hotel component.

<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/140-150_queen_far_fau_diagram.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Floor Area Ratio GFA and Floor Area Uplift GFA comparison"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="432" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140-150_queen_far_fau_diagram.png?itok=wGe3qdzJ" title="Floor Area Ratio GFA and Floor Area Uplift GFA comparison" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Floor Area Ratio GFA and Floor Area Uplift GFA comparison</figcaption></figure>
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Development Scenario: 140-150 Queen Street Redux

Is 2018 the year of commercial for the Melbourne market? 

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The first stage of Marcellin College's 10-year master plan - the $20 million Hermitage Project is now complete.

Comprising the refurbishment of the iconic Hermitage building and the construction of a three-level extension, the project delivers on the Catholic Marist boys’ school's vision of creating new educational possibilities for the 1400 students.

<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/7665-031n3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Old meets new at Marcellin College. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/7665-031n3.jpg?itok=6swMVRwW" title="Old meets new at Marcellin College. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Old meets new at Marcellin College. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>The Hermitage project, designed by COX Architecture and built by Kane Constructions, is the first part of a major 10-year Master Plan for the College. The Master Plan has been designed to unlock the school’s potential by developing clearly defined precincts and creating next-generation learning and social spaces.

Additionally, the Master Plan identified a preferred development strategy to enable Marcellin College to deliver its facilities in the most strategic, cost-effective and efficient manner. The work completed to date, as well as that outlined in the ongoing Master Plan, reflects wider developments in education.

During the Hermitage refurbishment and into the future, the master plan also reduces disruption by ensuring the maximum number of classrooms remain operational and the overall construction period is minimised for each project phase.

The redevelopment provides for an additional 3,000 sqm of new education space, encouraging collaboration, socialisation and self-direction among the students. It allows for a range of pedagogical approaches that just weren’t possible with the outdated and constrained classrooms of the original building, which was built when Marcellin opened in 1950.

<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/7665-073n3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new central atrium links the new teaching wing with the Hermitage building. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/7665-073n3.jpg?itok=53KM08Ka" title="A new central atrium links the new teaching wing with the Hermitage building. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new central atrium links the new teaching wing with the Hermitage building. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>The project included a new central atrium linking the Hermitage building to an adjoining teaching wing with a diverse range of learning environments, staff zones, and social spaces, and a dedicated Wurundjeri indigenous garden.

A new front of house and office spaces for the Marcellin leadership team was constructed in the adjacent Marist House including a linkage between the two spaces, a new car park adjacent on the existing tennis courts - replacing the existing car parking spaces that were lost as a result of the Hermitage extension. 
The project was completed on schedule for the beginning of the 2018 school year.

<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/7665-054n3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The project includes a dedicated Wurundjeri indigenous garden. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/7665-054n3.jpg?itok=S5YCQbr4" title="The project includes a dedicated Wurundjeri indigenous garden. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The project includes a dedicated Wurundjeri indigenous garden. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure><h2>What they say</h2>

<blockquote>
At Marcellin we are about developing flexible, independent, resilient and collaborative learners. Young men who not afraid to take risks in their learning, who are not afraid to fail, and who are creative and innovative in their approach. Our new facilities stimulate and encourage these traits through creative architecture and the innovative use of materials, colour, shape, angle and space. Our students appreciate the maturity of the new spaces they are engaging with and present themselves in kind.

The learning that is encouraged at Marcellin is as varied as the students themselves. Project based, team-oriented and self-directed learning is encouraged, and often the teacher is the facilitator rather than just someone who provides information. The development of the Hermitage project has transformed a restrictive, traditional classroom block into a vibrant, interactive, flexible and mature learning and community space that is sympathetic to the needs of contemporary learners.

- Mark Murphy, Marcellin College Principal
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The new three-level annex and the refurbishment of the school’s existing foundation building provide spaces and places that prioritise student activity, movement and interaction. These will afford all students a much deeper learning experience and reflect developments in other educational institutions, including TAFE colleges and universities. In this way, they assist students to make the transition to further and higher education programs.

- John Hayball, Project Associate,COX Architecture
</blockquote>

<blockquote>
The process aligned the school’s vision, goals and objectives with the built form, providing the school community with a comprehensive document that will guide development through to 2025 and beyond. We undertook extensive staging planning to maximise available classrooms and reduce disruption for students and staff, minimising the effects of working in a live environment.

- Emelie Watkinson, Senior Project Manager, Montlaur
</blockquote>
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First stage of Marcellin College's 10 year Master Plan complete

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Technē Architecture and Interior Design's move into larger premises on Rathdowne Street in Carlton has also coincided with the appointment of a new director to assist managing the office's growth. Steve McKeag joins founders Justin Northrop and Nick Travers, as the third director at the tightly knit studio, whose name and philosophy means ‘to make, poetically’.

McKeag’s promotion from senior associate reflects strong growth at Technē, which has recently <a href="/news/garden-state-hotel-previously-known-as-rosati">Garden State Hotel</a>, <a href="/news/raising-the-bar-techne-revamps-rooftop-bar-and-cinema">Rooftop Bar and Cinema</a>, and Brunetti Flinders Lane. The practice has also been recently announced as the architect for The Esplanade Hotel, St.Kilda; Tribe Hotels in Adelaide, Hobart and Melbourne; and several projects at Glenvill’s YarraBend development in Alphington.

<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/garden-state-07.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Garden State Hotel opened in late 2016. Image: Technē"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/garden-state-07.jpg?itok=flEnzEk_" title="Garden State Hotel opened in late 2016. Image: Technē" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Garden State Hotel opened in late 2016. Image: Technē</figcaption></figure>McKeag has demonstrated his ability across a range of project sectors, from hospitality to commercial developments. A registered architect, he has almost 20 years’ experience, including three years working in the UK for Richard Rogers Partnership (now known as Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners) and Reid Architects. For Technē,

Apartments.com.au asked Steve to provide a bit of background on his appointment, in addition to some of the joys of working in the hospitality sector within Technē - he has previously worked as lead architect on major projects including Richmond Club Hotel and the Prahran Hotel.

Apartments.com.au: Your appointment to director has also coincided with Technē's recent move into a new office space on Rathdowne Street in Carlton North. Were both moves as a result of the office's growth? And what are the office's plans for the future in terms of expansion in both staff numbers and other sectors?

Steve McKeag: Yes absolutely. We’ve had the good fortune of an amazing amount of growth since I started at Technē – evolving from 12 people in the Hardware Lane office to 35 in a very short amount of time.

As you can imagine, the amount of desk space has almost halved in that period so the move to Rathdowne Street heralds the chance for us to spread our wings in more ways than one.

The new office signifies a new era for Technē Architecture and Interior Design, acting as a line in the sand that we’re looking at as a catalyst for change as we look towards future growth. UM: Part of your role involves bringing in new projects to the office - are there particular projects you're targeting or areas you would like to further develop experience in?

SM: I do pride myself on my ability to grow and maintain client relationships. Bringing in new clients, as well as servicing and assisting existing clients is a highlight of my role.

In terms of particular projects, I think that hotels are a natural progression from hospitality projects, plus I would like to continue to build upon our growing portfolio of workplace design work. UM: <a href="/news/getting-to-know-techne-profiling-the-dynamic-design-practice"> In an interview with Urban.com.au</a> Nick previously cited the office's pub work as some of his most enjoyable projects in particular the fact that unlike other projects the pubs can be enjoyed by the design team socially and they present a unique opportunity to see first hand how people are making use of the spaces they have designed. What are your most enjoyable projects within the office?

SM: The Espy has been an incredibly exciting project to work on. The location combined with its status as a Melbourne icon has made it particularly rewarding and we’re all thrilled to be involved with its reinvigoration.

I have great memories of visiting the venue in my 20’s so returning the Espy to its former glory in order for a new generation to create fresh memories continues to be an honour.

<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/steve_mckeag_photo.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Steve McKeag was recently appointed as director at Technē. Image: Supplied "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/steve_mckeag_photo.jpg?itok=GRCvGqoj" title="Steve McKeag was recently appointed as director at Technē. Image: Supplied " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Steve McKeag was recently appointed as director at Technē. Image: Supplied</figcaption></figure>UM: On the topic of pubs do you have a favourite pub? (Doesn't have to necessarily be a new or Technē designed pub?

SM: I think we’re really spoilt for choice in Melbourne for pubs as pub culture is a big part of our city, so it’s very hard to decide. In the city it would have to be a tie between The Gem and Fox Hotel in Collingwood because both are old school favourites. The Gem has a really cool and authentic Americana aesthetic, and the Fox Hotel has a welcoming, quintessentially Melbourne vibe. Both always seems to strike the right tone for a good night.

When I have the chance to get out of the city I can’t go past visiting the Dinner Plain Hotel. Summer or winter, it’s definitely the mountains best pub and you can’t go past the views. Keeping with the alpine theme, the Cardrona Hotel in New Zealand after a day on the slopes is spectacular.

Rumoured to be the most photographed building in the country, the combination of its incredible beer garden and sense of history make it a go-to destination.

UM: Justin previously talked about how the Directors are able to delegate to senior team members, allowing them to take the lead on projects, entrusting them with a level of responsibility to represent the office in meetings. Did you find this approach assisted your development and progression to Director?

SM: Nick and Justin give a lot of autonomy and this creates a supportive and nurturing workplace. Together, they’ve fostered an environment in which team members are able to share experiences and learn from one another.

By asking questions as simple as ‘how would you approach that?’, the leadership team is able to encourage an open dialogue between employees at all levels and create a space where resources and knowledge can be easily shared. Contributing to this open forum type discussions has definitely helped my development and progression to director. UM: How important do you believe mentoring is within architectural practice and how does Technē foster and nurture talent to give staff the confidence to tackle projects of any size and budget?

SM: Mentoring is critical within any architectural practice. The creative side of architecture can be very time exorbitant, so communicating with staff in a way that gets them to lift their heads up and identify the critical task at hand is very important.

At Techne, team leaders will often ask younger staff to identify goals and key tasks early on, so that the confidence to takes projects of any size and budget can be built upon early on. UM: Lastly, UM asked both Nick and Justin this so I'll ask you as well - is there a project either here in Melbourne or globally that you'd like to work on? What would your dream project be?

SM: My dream project would definitely my own house. If the sky’s the limit then extend the fantasy to include a coastal location and a limitless budget. That would be perfect!
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Technē's Steve McKeag discusses his appointment as Director (and his favourite pubs)

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The residential property development arm of OpenCorp has been relaunched as a standalone entity under the new name Equire, with almost $500 million of national projects in the pipeline,. Established in 2006, OpenCorp has grown to include five divisions offering investment advice, property management, finance broking, funds management and property development services.

Equire's most recent acquisition was a 1,400 sqm square metre site in Ivanhoe, 10 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD. The site is earmarked to have an end value of $34 million and will include approximately 45 apartments, with a mix of one, two and three bedrooms to suit a variety of purchasers.

Urban.com.au asked Equire director and OpenCorp founder Allister Lewison about the rebrand and his aspirations for Equire.

<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/161209_-_757_toorak_rd_-_v01_-_hero_-_final_2000.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Equire's East Side Village project in Hawthorn East. Image : Equire"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="315" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/161209_-_757_toorak_rd_-_v01_-_hero_-_final_2000.jpg?itok=mmvG1IJn" title="Equire's East Side Village project in Hawthorn East. Image : Equire" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Equire's East Side Village project in Hawthorn East. Image : Equire</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au : What are your ambitions for Equire? What are the types of projects you want Equire to be synonymous with?

Allister Lewison : At Equire, our core ambition is to build brighter futures for our customers, partners and investors. We want to continue to deliver solutions based not only on what the market needs now but also into the future.  

A core feature of our projects is design excellence – we only create products that will stand the test of time and that are most suitable for our buyers. This might be high-end downsizer apartments in Perth or a first home buyer land subdivision in Brisbane. We make sure that the product we are delivering meets and exceeds the expectations of our purchasers

UM : Is there any overlap between Equire and the other divisions of OpenCorp, in terms of support on projects? 

AL : There is definitely an overlap between Equire and the other divisions within the OpenCorp Group. We share and work closely with our funds, finance and invest divisions.

UM : What future projects are on the horizon for Equire, particularly in Melbourne?

AL : In Melbourne, we will soon be launching our Ivanhoe apartment project. This will include a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments focusing on functionality, style and luxury. The project will be placed amongst Ivanhoe’s leafy streetscapes and likely attract downsizers, first home buyers and investors.

We are also currently contracting a site in South East Queensland for a 300-lot subdivision.

UM : Can you provide an update on your new project in Ivanhoe? When is it likely to launch?

AL : Equire’s latest apartment project in Ivanhoe is set to launch in November 2018. The project will be perfectly located close to public transport, parklands and shops. Our project will steer away from bland apartment buildings and will showcase the best of Ivanhoe’s beautiful streetscape. The architectural design will utilise curved geometry to speak to the art deco aesthetic of the Ivanhoe locality, with lush landscaping incorporated in the architectural design to allow the greenery to build on the character of the building façade.

UM : What are your thoughts on the state of the residential property market in Melbourne at present? 
AL : Melbourne continues to be one of the hottest residential markets in the country, and at the moment we are noticing an influx of first home buyers and downsizers. Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows that loans to Victorian first home buyers reached its highest monthly level in November 2017, at 3527, since late 2009. 
We are seeing a demand for good quality, small-scale apartment projects as well as townhouse developments.

UM : In terms of future growth aspirations for Equire, where in Australia do you see the most potential in the residential property market?

AL : We are noticing a lot of potential for residential property in Queensland, most notably in the South East. Data shows that there is forecast growth for the region, particularly due to the Commonwealth Games in April where the government is set to spend up to $1.5 billion on infrastructure and improvements. Additionally, the Gold Coast is one of Australia’s fastest growing cities.

Its current population is over 500,000 and this number is expected to grow to 820,000 in the next 20 years, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

We are currently contracting a site in South East Queensland as well as continuing to monitor the market for any further opportunities.
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OpenCorp relaunches development business as Equire

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Devitt Property Group's The Muse is a 14-storey development designed by Bruce Henderson Architects (BHA) comprising 45 residences with six-star amenities and the latest in security systems. 

Located at 409 St Kilda Road on the corner with Toorak Road West, the boutique project has direct frontage onto Fawkner Park and includes north facing views over the The Shrine, Royal Botanic Gardens and the city skyline.

Managing Director Peter Devitt purchased the site 16 years ago with a vision to one day develop an architecturally exemplar building. As Managing Director of L.U. Simon Builders, Peter has 50 years’ of construction experience and expertise to draw upon, founding Devitt Property Group with his son Kane.

<blockquote>
We could have built 200-plus apartments within this building envelope, but instead we have designed 45 luxury residences to create an exceptional place to live.

We understand what high net worth individuals want –privacy, security, convenience, the city’s best location and larger residences with bespoke, hand-crafted interiors.

- Peter Devitt, Managing Director Devitt Property Group
</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_muse_inline.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Muse's corner location also includes direct frontage to Fawkner Park. Image : supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_muse_inline.jpg?itok=mvrHsfxm" title="The Muse's corner location also includes direct frontage to Fawkner Park. Image : supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Muse's corner location also includes direct frontage to Fawkner Park. Image : supplied</figcaption></figure>Designed with a strong focus on providing residents with absolute privacy and security, the development will feature a 24-hour concierge service and two amenity levels with a grand entry foyer, 20-metre lap pool, relaxation pool and spa, large gymnasium with sauna and steam rooms, and a residents’ club lounge with private meeting rooms.

The Muse will also be providing residents with a bespoke interface technology system enhancing the security and energy credentials of the building, while ensuring the the future proofing potential and energy efficiency of the building. This allows the building to keep up to date with the latest advancements in technology.

The home automation interface will enable residents to customise processes such as heating and cooling system operation, automated blind control and intelligent lighting controls. This system goes a long way down the path to ensuring that the household is almost entirely self-managing.

<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_muse_inline_02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Muse will provide residents with the latest in security and energy saving technologies in addition to its high performance facade. Image : supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="327" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_muse_inline_02.jpg?itok=fdPyzR5a" title="The Muse will provide residents with the latest in security and energy saving technologies in addition to its high performance facade. Image : supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Muse will provide residents with the latest in security and energy saving technologies in addition to its high performance facade. Image : supplied</figcaption></figure>The arrival process at The Muse will be streamlined with number plate recognition technology that will informs a lift which will be despatched and awaiting the resident’s arrival. Additional entry access to The Muse will be via biometric systems, facial recognition, fingerprint scanner recognition and personalised ‘FOB swipe’.

Whilst it includes the latest technology, The Muse will also cater for those that prefer the non-technical applications. Car charging technology is included, as are provisions for off grid battery systems.

The Muse's building envelope has been designed to maximise passive performance, with high performance façade elements maximising access to natural light whilst minimising energy consumption. The high performance building envelope joins onsite electrical generation and water conservation systems.

The development's array of technical prowess is part of the equation that Devitt hopes will satisfy intended purchasers. The Muse residences will range from 200-1,000 plus square metres, with the penthouse spread over two levels expected to be the most expensive apartment in Melbourne.

A price has yet to be finalised but a price tag in excess of $40 million is expected.

<h2>Project Team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Devitt Property Group</li>
	<li>Architect: Bruce Henderson Architects (BHA)</li>
	<li>Services: Waterman AHW</li>
	<li>Builder: L.U. Simon</li>
	<li>Project Marketing: Knight Frank</li>
</ul>
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St Kilda Road's The Muse places itself at the cutting edge of technology

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There’s been a flurry of activity at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre’s (MCEC) $200 million expansion site, with remarkable progress being made during throughout the latter stages of 2017.

Designed by Woods Bagot and NH Architecture for the Victorian Government’s partner in the project, Plenary Group, the expansion will maintain the built quality and delegate experience at the existing MCEC and maintain its leading benchmark status in the Asia-Pacific region.

The 20,000 square metres expansion includes 9,000 square metres of flexible, multi-purpose event space, new exhibition halls, additional meeting rooms, a banquet room and the Goldfields Café and Bar. Once completed, the new space will cement MCEC’s position as the largest convention and exhibition space in Australia, with an increased total size of over 70,000 square metres. 

<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/nmsw_pedlink-e1501501409374.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="How the completed MCEC Expansion and Novotel will look. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="379" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nmsw_pedlink-e1501501409374.jpg?itok=WLVir4cX" title="How the completed MCEC Expansion and Novotel will look. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>How the completed MCEC Expansion and Novotel will look. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>Set to open mid-year, the new space has been architecturally designed to provide customers with more options for any event type; from meetings and conferences through to educational seminars or gala dinners. A multi-purpose space will have retractable seating for up to 1,100 people; service pods, meeting rooms and informal meeting spaces.

There will also be a large concourse and a banquet room with capacity to cater for up to 450 people. 
Probuild will have the construction programme to a point whereby as of late this month the installation of the central staircase, distinctive gold exterior panels and a skylight over the new foyer space will be in place.  
MCEC took inspiration from Victoria’s rich history in determining names for key spaces within its expansion. The greatest inspiration came from the gold colour of the expansion’s exterior, culminating in Victoria’s goldfields becoming the theme from which names would be drawn.  
From the Goldfields Theatre, Sovereign Room, Eureka Rooms and Goldfields Café and Bar, the names link to the goldfields of Victoria’s past having been a place for people to gather along with a period of new opportunities, ideas, prosperity and grandeur.

<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/img_4997.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Construction progress during January"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="902" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_4997.jpg?itok=lkCPYjLx" title="Construction progress during January" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Construction progress during January</figcaption></figure>The works are part of a larger South Wharf expansion project that includes a new 347-room Novotel Melbourne South Wharf and a new 1,150-space multi-level car park – all fully connected and integrated with existing buildings. The multi-level car park is complete, and the new hotel will open in March.

The expansion will include: more meeting rooms, a gala ballroom, 6 new exhibition bays, retractable theatre, courtyard meeting rooms, outdoor terrace and a new cafe and bar.

Access to the new exhibition hall will be via the new concourse or the new central hub space, which will be the dynamic focal point of this new precinct. Linked to both the existing exhibition centre concourse and the main plenary foyer this exciting new hub space will be the place for people to meet and connect.

As the first convention centre in the world to be awarded a 6-Star Green Star environmental rating, sustainability remains at the core of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre’s (MCEC) business priorities. Over the past two years the venue has decreased energy consumption in the Exhibition Centre by 30 per cent, due to the introduction of ecological and sustainable infrastructure.  
  
The venue has invested in a new CO2 monitoring system, variable speed drives, energy efficient chillers, an energy management system and are currently trialling LED lights in the Exhibition Centre bays to further reduce energy usage. 

Although the venue is set to grow by 25 per cent when the expansion project reaches completion in mid-2018, MCEC is working to ensure its carbon emissions don’t increase through sourcing power from renewable energy.

<iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AVdrZ6pQMgI" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>WHAT THEY SAY</h2>

<blockquote>
 
We want to ensure our facilities suit the needs of our customers, rather than constraining them to fit within our space. A multi-purpose area with a retractable 1,000 seat theatre and adaptable meeting rooms are just two of the many flexible features throughout the new building.

Before we have even cut the ribbon, we have 220 events confirmed for our new expansion space, commencing at mid-2018. I look forward to officially opening the new space later this year.

- Peter King, MCEC Chief Executive
</blockquote>

 

<blockquote>
Our expansion is an absolute game changer – we’re talking three and a half MCGs of new space to attract more events and thousands more visitors to Victoria. Not only will this redevelopment boost tourism, it will also create more than 900 new jobs and provide a massive boost to our local economy each year.

- Victorian Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Hon. John Eren
</blockquote>
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MCEC Expansion on target for mid-year opening

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As part of its $88 million redevelopment, the State Library of Victoria (SLV) is providing Victorian apprentices, trainees and cadets with the opportunity to help with its transformation as part of its Vision 2020. The expansive project will create additional space for public use, restore and reopen the Ian Potter Queen’s Hall, and reinstate the historic Russell Street entrance.

The State Library opened in 1856 and welcomes over 2 million visitors each year through its doors, making it Australia's oldest and busiest public library. Within its walls there are 5.1 million items ranging from books and manuscripts, to photographs, music, art and ephemera.

Such is the importance of the State Library to Victorians that the CBD North Station will be named State Library Station as part of the $11bn Melbourne Metro project.

<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/baldwin_spencer_v05_tweaked_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Additional public space will be created as part of the State Library's $88m revamp. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/baldwin_spencer_v05_tweaked_0.jpg?itok=hLqFhDwr" title="Additional public space will be created as part of the State Library's $88m revamp. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Additional public space will be created as part of the State Library's $88m revamp. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure>The project forms part of the State Government’s Major Projects Skills Guarantee initiative, meaning apprentices, trainees and engineering cadets are required to carry out at least 10 per cent of total labour hours.

Designed by Architectus and the Danish-based practice, Schmidt Hammer Lassen, the redevelopment has had 19,800 workhours completed, with 2,100 of them completed by seven apprentices, trainees and engineering cadets

This exceeds the 10 per cent target, and has provided opportunities for architecture student Sarah Ianno, and other young workers to fine-tune their skills and get valuable experience.  Sarah had the opportunity to work on the project alongside the Architectus team while on an industry placement at the company and now works at Architectus part-time whilst finishing her degree.

<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/tic_v03_tweaked.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The State Library revamp has been designed by Architectus and Denmark's Schmidt Hammer Lassen. Image : Supplied"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tic_v03_tweaked.jpg?itok=g6jaqPjY" title="The State Library revamp has been designed by Architectus and Denmark's Schmidt Hammer Lassen. Image : Supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The State Library revamp has been designed by Architectus and Denmark's Schmidt Hammer Lassen. Image : Supplied</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Working on the State Library of Victoria project while I was a student gave me first-hand experience of collaborating with a team of designers on a complex project and seeing how everyone works together to produce a successful outcome. Not only was I working within the Architectus team, but I was also working with suppliers seeing how all the moving parts in a project come together – a highly beneficial experience for someone new to the industry.

One of the most valuable things I learnt was the use of the Building Information Modelling tool Revit. This serves as a streamlined communication tool across the planning, design, construction and management of a project, promoting better collaboration between everyone involved. When I returned to university after my placement, I could see just how much I’d learnt in the short period of time – it’s definitely helped to further my studies.

I particularly enjoyed being involved in the selection of furniture and finishes within the Library, ensuring we adhered to our sustainability considerations. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to work on this iconic Melbourne project. It’s a significant milestone at such an early stage of my design career.

- Sarah Ianno, Student of Architecture, Architectus
</blockquote>

The Victorian State Government is providing $60.4 million worth of funding towards the project with the remaining $27.7 million coming via philanthropic support.

Built commenced construction last year with an anticipated completion in 2020, and 125 jobs created during the redevelopment.
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State Library looks to the future for its revamp

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Last year Apartments.com.au reported that the City of Melbourne had voted in favour of revised draft plans for the Q2 area of the Queen Victoria Market Renewal Project. The endorsed scheme reduced the size of the footprint of works in exchange for a deeper excavation for the below-ground facilities at the western end of Sheds A, B, C &amp; D. 

As a result, the eastern sections of the sheds, adjacent to Queens Street, no longer require removal meaning that fewer fruit and veg traders will be disrupted.

This, in turn, has resulted in Breathe Architecture's design for the Market Garden Pavilion - to be located along Queens Street - being reduced down to 111m, from the initial length of 254m originally proposed. The $7.4 million structure will be built on the northern end of Queen Street, providing space for displaced traders once the redevelopment of Q2 commences.

According to documentation prepared by town planners Contour acting on behalf of the City of Melbourne, other key changes to the original design are summarised below:

<ul>
<li>Slight reduction in the width of the pavilion from east to west from 19 metres to 17.7 metres.</li>
	<li>Removal of seven plane trees in the location of the proposed pavilion in accordance with recommendations of both the project arborist (Tree Logic) and Council’s arborist.</li>
	<li>Reduction in the extent of ‘netting’ associated with the greenhouse.</li>
	<li>Relocation of the amphitheatre bleacher seating from north to south and reversal from the west to the east side.</li>
	<li>Reversal of northern stair from the west to the east side.</li>
	<li>Conversion of the double height bay where the plane trees were located to additional greenhouse area.</li>
	<li>Retention of the amenities block.</li>
	<li>Removal of cool rooms from the market carpark.</li>
	<li>The three-bay Greenhouse structure is modified to include five bays over the width and length of a steel platform.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
Market Garden serves as a temporary trading pavilion that initiates a layered programmatic and experiential outcome for the trader, shopper and visitor.

Through contextual ground floor markings and super graphics that reference and describe the narrative of the current site, traders will have a defined place of business beneath a productive and seasonal greenhouse.

Market Garden is not about redefining the way traders interact with their customers, it’s about respecting and maintaining the iconic market experience, movement and feel, ensuring that stallholders are able to continue trading as they know and enjoy in a temporary environment.

- Breathe Architecture Design Response
</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/market_garden_pavilion.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Market Garden Pavilion adopts a prefabricated and standardised construction system enabling speedy and efficient construction. Image : Breathe Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/market_garden_pavilion.jpg?itok=WpK6l8Z3" title="The Market Garden Pavilion adopts a prefabricated and standardised construction system enabling speedy and efficient construction. Image : Breathe Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The intended Market Garden Pavilion. Image: Breathe Architecture</figcaption></figure>Breathe Architecture's design for the Market Garden pavilion comprises two key parts; the 1,560 sqm Trading Hall and the upper-level Greenhouse.

<h2>Trading Hall</h2>

Fruit and vegetable stalls affected by market renewal works (sheds A – D) will be relocated in a flexible and adaptable open trading floor - sheltered, shaded and cooled beneath a high canopy. Visual and pedestrian permeability will be maintained to the upper market while also providing functional solutions for events, and trading logistics of loading and unloading.  

Upper-level access and amphitheatre seating will be included at the south end of the pavilion providing a gathering and event space.

<h2>Greenhouse</h2>

The intended Greenhouse is based on other urban farm models around the world.

Located above the trading floor is an enclosed, functioning greenhouse with a portion of hospitality trading. It's expected the greenhouse will become both a productive and educational tool laden with crops that can be seen, touched and smelled.

Market Garden will promote conversation around food security and how we obtain it plus how we consume and dispose of excess food. It will be reflective of the market life cycle, growing and functioning both day and night while also providing welcome relief from heat island effect. 
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QVM's Market Garden Pavilion reduced to half its original size

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sunland-group">Sunland Group</a> has officially lodged plans for its first Gold Coast apartment project since the departure of the Abedian family from the company three years ago, unveiling a new high-rise proposal for a prominent Broadbeach corner site on Old Burleigh Road.

The application was submitted by an entity directed by Tom Jamieson, stepson of longtime Sunland leader Soheil Abedian, and Riaz Rezvanipour, brother-in-law of Sahba Abedian, Soheil’s son.

Sunland acquired the 1,283 sqm site on the corner of Old Burleigh Road and Armrick Avenue for $9.5 million late last year and is now seeking approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-101-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">42-storey tower with 81 apartments</a>.

<img alt="First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fea2946d-90ee-4cfc-babe-2a8ad5db2cb6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers.png?VersionId=BV0fihJw31nDIQ8ozY_h3GbS8mxDyhnm" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, the proposed tower at 99-101 Old Burleigh Road would deliver a predominantly larger-format apartment mix aimed at the owner-occupier market. Plans include 17 two-bedroom apartments, 55 three-bedroom apartments, and nine four-bedroom residences across 35 residential levels.

The development also incorporates three basement levels, four podium parking levels, two levels of communal recreation facilities, and rooftop plant and equipment. A total of 189 car spaces are proposed, significantly exceeding the 90 spaces required under the planning scheme.

The architecture adopts a sculpted, curvilinear form, with deep wraparound balconies and integrated landscaping intended to soften the tower’s vertical expression. The planning report states the building’s “slender footprint/form provides a complimentary yet varied built form within the local streetscape” and contributes to “a varied, yet ordered skyline.”

Contreras Earl noted in its Architectural Statement that from the early stages, the project addressed a fundamental challenge: how to accommodate the required residential yield while avoiding the conventional model of a tower sitting on a rigid, fully resolved parking podium.

“The most direct response would have been to consolidate parking into a singular, flat podium and extrude a repetitive tower above,” the statement said. “While efficient, this approach would result in a consolidated built form with limited engagement with the surrounding landscape and public realm.”

Instead, the conventional podium model was “deliberately rejected”. The architects described the base of the building as “a landscaped architectural condition where structure, planting and circulation are integrated”.

“Rather than presenting a continuous built mass, the base of the building is articulated through a series of concrete planter elements that organise the podium into a fragmented system,” the statement said. “This approach reduces the perceived bulk of the lower levels while establishing a more permeable interface with the streetscape and adjacent open space.”

<img alt="Sunland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="923fad8d-c960-4527-8fbe-975cf1ddf88d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%2010.32.03%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=pngwb0hYOIUpq9vDw6F2EsOiVuHF3DiX" />

&nbsp;

The site sits within the High Density Residential Zone and inside the City of Gold Coast’s unrestricted “HX” building height area, where the planning framework anticipates intensified residential development tied to the expanding light rail corridor. The planning report notes the area is undergoing “transition toward more intense development forms” given its proximity to Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, and high-frequency public transport infrastructure.

Positioned directly opposite Broadbeach Park and within walking distance of Florida Gardens light rail station, the development would sit among a rapidly evolving stretch of Old Burleigh Road that has become one of the Gold Coast’s most active apartment development corridors.

The application joins a growing pipeline of luxury residential projects reshaping Broadbeach, including nearby developments by 5Point Projects, Polycell, and Graya.

The planning report argues the project contributes toward the Gold Coast’s long-term housing targets under the South East Queensland Regional Plan, which forecasts the need for more than 100,000 additional high-rise dwellings across the city by 2046.

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-4" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-1" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-1" dir="auto">
The Abedian family departed Sunland Group in late 2023, ending a four-decade association with the company, and subsequently established the private development firm Abedian &amp; Co. The group is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/greenmount-residences-cnr-hill-street-and-marine-parade-coolangatta-qld-4225">Greenmount Residences</a> at Rainbow Bay and recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/18-mary-avenue-14-18-mary-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">18 Mary Avenue</a> in Broadbeach.
</section>

Joel Robinson

First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach new apartment market with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans

The Minns Labor Government has established the new Bays West Delivery Authority to lead the development&nbsp;of the Bays West Precinct and Blackwattle Bay Precinct.&nbsp;

The Authority is charged with creating Sydney’s newest precinct, a thriving, connected, sustainable hub with White Bay Power Station as its cultural heart. Its vision is to build on the area’s natural, cultural and industrial history to shape a vibrant new neighbourhood.

The precinct will deliver up to 8,500 well-located homes, including a minimum of 10 per cent affordable and essential worker homes. Combine new housing with public open space, opening public access to the waterfront for the first time in more than 100 years, while retaining important deep-water facilities to support Sydney’s working harbour.

Located just minutes from the Sydney CBD and connected to a world-class metro, ferry, walking and cycling links, the Bays West precinct will rebalance housing growth towards well-serviced inner-city locations and help tackle the state’s housing crisis.

The Bays West Delivery Authority,&nbsp;an agency of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, will report to the NSW Minister for Lands and Property who already has oversight of major precinct renewal projects including at Blackwattle Bay and Barangaroo.

As part of the broader Bays West transformation, the Minns Government recently announced that a proposal from Lendlease to redevelop part of the Bays West Precinct has progressed to Stage 2 of the NSW Government’s unsolicited proposals process.

<img alt="Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ed71eb9-d8e8-4fa7-b9d1-de4531dcf2f3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%209.42.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=IDryFIbped9SNDg72LEN_EecvhUsOPvp" />

The Minns Labor Government has also confirmed the Bays West precinct will have a new suburb name. This will be the first major suburb built in close proximity to Sydney’s CBD in decades and will encompass the area currently being referred to as Bays West, including Glebe Island and the White Bay Power Station. Served by a new Metro station just five minutes from the CBD, it will become one of the most populous suburbs in the Inner West and one of Sydney’s premier cultural destinations.

An early works program is taking shape, which&nbsp;includes the first stages of an international design competition.&nbsp;

The aim of the Bays West&nbsp;International&nbsp;Design Competition is to&nbsp;ensure design excellence is embedded in the project from the start. The competition will deliver an&nbsp;urban framework that defines the character, ambition and long-term identity of&nbsp;this&nbsp;former industrial precinct as it transitions to a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable residential&nbsp;neighbourhood.

The competition will be led by the Bays West Delivery Authority in partnership with Government Architect NSW.&nbsp;

It will launch with an invitation for a global Expressions of Interest, before moving to an invitation-only stage that will be assessed by a panel that&nbsp;will provide advice to Cabinet who will select a winner.

Premier of NSW, Chris Minns said the establishment of the new Authority is the first step in transforming the Bays West precinct into a vibrant, livable suburb minutes from the Sydney CBD and two stops from Hunter St Station on the Metro West line.

“The Authority will deliver well-located homes close to the heart of the city and integrate the new precinct with Blackwattle Bay and the new Sydney Fish Market.

“This is a generational opportunity to build a new suburb on the city’s edge and open the harbour foreshore to the public for the first time in a century.”&nbsp;

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the new Bays West Delivery Authority established by the Minns Government will turbocharge the development of Sydney’s newest suburb.

“The Authority is working at a record pace to deliver an international design competition, planning pathways and a financial model so that this development benefits Sydney with well-designed homes in a central location, close to public transport, jobs, entertainment and essential services.

“If we want Sydney to stay liveable and affordable, we need to be bold about using underutilised government-owned land to deliver homes for the future while making sure essential working harbour functions can be accommodated.”

Bays West Delivery Authority established to "turbocharge" Sydney’s newest suburb

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.

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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.

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.

Laurence Dragomir

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