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Pace Development Group has been busy in recent weeks with the appointment of Georgia Willis as its new Development Manager, while also launching its Pace of Abbotsford apartment development. 

The 133-apartment building designed by SJB Architects at 247 Johnston Street will be anchored by the retained art deco façade of Saint Crispin House, drawing on the architecture of the heritage fabric with light coloured materials employed as a backdrop for operable metal screens that will create a dynamic façade that responds to solar access.

The 11-storey development will comprise a mix of one, two and three bedroom single level apartments and a series of multi-level townhouses with construction of the project scheduled to commence by the end of the year and completion anticipated during mid-2019.

<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/ext_abbotsford_elevated_shot_final_lowres.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pace of Abbotsford with the retained facade of St Crispin House. Image: Pace Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="380" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ext_abbotsford_elevated_shot_final_lowres.jpg?itok=VSwqT5dV" title="Pace of Abbotsford with the retained facade of St Crispin House. Image: Pace Development Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pace of Abbotsford with the retained facade of St Crispin House. Image: Pace Development Group</figcaption></figure>Georgia Willis, Pace's newly appointed development manager, brings 20 years of industry experience working for Government and private developers such as Caydon, Mirvac, Places Victoria and VicTrack. Georgia was awarded the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) Women in Leadership award for 2016 recognising her professional contribution to the development industry.

<blockquote>
I am fortunate that through my work on Caydon’s Malt District, I have almost met with every consultant in town! This was of huge benefit to my position in the industry and I’m excited to introduce Pace to those relationships and build valuable connections where Pace has not had a strong presence in the past.

- Georgia Willis, Development Manager
</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/ext_abbotsford_pool_final_lowres.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The 20m infinity pool as part of Pace of Abbotsford. Image: Pace Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="290" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ext_abbotsford_pool_final_lowres.jpg?itok=F9QCXBFL" title="The 20m infinity pool as part of Pace of Abbotsford. Image: Pace Development Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The 20m infinity pool as part of Pace of Abbotsford. Image: Pace Development Group</figcaption></figure>What attracted you to your new position of Development Manager at Pace?

I have always maintained a keen interest in watching other developers and how they each uniquely innovate the marketplace. Pace is a business I have admired and respected for some time, so when I was contacted by Shane about the Development Manager role, I was immediately interested.

Pace’s strategy has always been very clear to me. Their passion for the Melbourne market is a huge credit to them, and their commitment to delivering iconic buildings that will leave a legacy in this city demonstrates enormous integrity. I strongly ascribe to this vision and feel that it aligns perfectly with my own personal brand and career aspirations.

Can you provide an overview of your position at Pace?

Given that Pace has come from a construction background, their level of technical expertise is unrivaled in the industry. My role has been introduced to bring further sophistication to their front-end development function – in particular leveraging my experience across government projects and the associated relationships I have built.

Forging these relationships between Pace and critical government stakeholders at a state and local level will evolve Pace’s pre-development activities, and ultimately the timely approval and delivery of our projects.

What do you hope to achieve in your new role as Development Manager at Pace? 

I’m very excited to pioneer strong female leadership at Pace. There is already great diversity and a powerful level of thinking in the organisation, so I look forward to being a mentor for other great female talent coming through the ranks.

I’m looking forward to driving a more coherent stakeholder management strategy that leverages the value that already exists in the Pace brand, to really put us in the driver's seat on government tenders and commercial partnerships to deliver outcomes we can be truly proud of, that make a broader economic and social contribution.

Where do you see the property market heading?

I think the residential market is as strong as we have seen it. While the property bubble is a constant discussion point, this relates to only concentrated areas of the market.

The reality is that Pace aren’t dealing with a micro market - we are dealing with a macro market, and there’s always going to be a strong demand for quality designed and constructed, affordable housing in areas that people want to live in.

With Pace’s diversification into other development types such as townhouse estates, what will you bring to this new strategy and how will draw on your past experience?

Pace has built a formidable reputation in the boutique area of the market through their existing developments. However, with the move into large-scale precincts, there needs to be a greater emphasis on placemaking and on branding, not just at a developer level, but at a suburb and community level.

This work needs to commence in advance of when a project is scheduled to launch, to build desirability and demand around areas before we even have a product to offer the market.
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Laurence Dragomir

Q+A with Pace's new development manager Georgia Willis

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Sage Hotel Ringwood, located at Eastland Shopping Centre opened its doors on Tuesday 10 October becoming the first hotel in Victoria to be developed atop a shopping centre.

The new 120-room, full-service hotel spans five floors above the shopping centre and includes a restaurant, bar, conference and co-working facilities comprising of a boardroom, function room and a co-working space with a capacity of 80 people.

The hotel was delivered under a design and construct contract for QIC, following Probuild’s completion of the $500M+ Eastland Shopping Centre Redevelopment in 2016.

<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/eastland_hotel.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Sage Hotel bar at Eastland. Image: Probuild"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/eastland_hotel.jpg?itok=hnl3XLFz" title="The Sage Hotel bar at Eastland. Image: Probuild" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Sage Hotel bar at Eastland. Image: Probuild</figcaption></figure>Probuild’s September handover allowed Next Story Group four weeks of preparation to ensure a smooth opening day and first-class experience for guests. 

<blockquote>
We’re incredibly proud to have delivered Victoria’s first retail destination hotel. We’re building a number of large-scale luxury hotels around the country, including The Ritz Carlton in Melbourne and Perth and The Star Gold Coast. It’s been fantastic to combine this and our mixed-use experience with a project such as Sage Hotel Ringwood.

- Probuild Victorian Managing Director, Luke Stambolis.
</blockquote>

QIC GRE and Next Story Group will be teaming up once again on the $800 million 80 Collins Street project which will feature a 300-room NEXT hotel and is currently under construction. This presents Next Story's second foray into the Melbourne hotel scene following on from Sage.

Meanwhile, Probuild will be keeping busy having recently been awarded the contract for the first stage of Far East Consortium's West Side Place project at 250 Spencer Street, the site of the former Age building.

The first stage of the $1bn project will deliver 1376 apartments across two towers, as well as the tallest hotel in the southern hemisphere - the 263 room Ritz-Carlton hotel which will rise to a height of 270m.

<blockquote>
This Victorian project is one of unprecedented scale and ambition, not just for Probuild but for Melbourne. West Side Place will be an exemplary project for generations to come.

-  Luke Stamboulis
</blockquote>

Probuild will commence preparatory works on West Side Place immediately, with construction anticipated to commence in November this year. West Side Place is scheduled for completion in 2022. 
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Eastland's Sage Hotel officially opens, contract awarded for Ritz Carlton

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During its monthly meeting on Tuesday night, the City of Melbourne's Future Melbourne (Planning Committee) has resolved to provide its support for a 48-storey tower at 56-62 Clarendon Street. The current Europcar car hire and workshop on site will be replaced by a 161m tower accommodating 208 apartments and 128 serviced apartments atop a six storey podium.

The site has previously had approval for a silver Elenberg Fraser designed tower from 2013 with an extension of time to commence construction lapsing in May of this year.

Car parking will be via a stacker system on levels 1 to 6, with access provided from the laneway adjacent to the site’s northern boundary. The parking levels will be wrapped in a sleeve of studio apartments along Clarendon Street and the adjacent laneway with a ground floor cafe. 

The tower, which has a plot ratio of 22.6:1 is characterised by its slim glazed form with a recessed golden ribbon element dissecting the form into a series of irregularly shaped stacked forms, as it rises up its full height, culminating in a blade roof feature punctured by a series of large openings. 

<blockquote>
We acknowledge some effort has been made to exaggerate the applied linework to the façade to provide some depth and segmentation. Further, subtle elevation changes exaggerate this sense of a series of stacked forms. We appreciate the increased setbacks to the rear interface with 46 Haig Street to address previous advice; however we recommend a green roof / planter component to this component of the podium to address the outlook of residents.

- City of Melbourne's Urban Design team
</blockquote>

<ul></ul>
One of the major changes to the design has been the relocation of the lift and services core from the more prominent northern elevation to the southern wall which will be opposite another development site.

Additionally the podium has had further visual elements incorporated into its design such as V shaped support structure and a textured treatment of off form ribbed concrete upstands to balconies bookended by glazed balustrades. 

Greater permeability has been provided with additional portholes along the north eastern corner and activation to the ground floor.

<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/image19_14_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Before and after. A number of changes have been adopted to the design. Images: Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="503" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image19_14_0.jpg?itok=P2_hngCs" title="Before and after. A number of changes have been adopted to the design. Images: Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Before and after. A number of changes have been adopted to the design. Images: Fender Katsalidis</figcaption></figure>Further suggested changes and resolution to the design of the podium to "achieve a coherent, strong streetscape interface" include:

<ul>
<li>Ensure that elements of the podium treatment wrap to the side elevation to provide a more coherent treatment. For example, the use of the applied metal ring could relate to the materiality of balustrades for providing some continuity. [There is a strong preference for] a high-quality materiality response over a coarse gesture.</li>
	<li>[There is] still concerned with the unresolved nature of the V elements. Whilst there have seen similar elements used to great success in a landscape setting (garden beds etc such as across the road in Metropol) they have a poor relationship to the human scale and terrace element. They currently obscure views from the terrace, but also fail to provide intimacy and enclosure to the raised space. This space should be resolved in more detail at 1:20.</li>
	<li>Ensure that the ramp is designed effectively as a transition zone that connects the internal programming with the public realm but also provides a high-quality space for outdoor seating. The renders and drawings are not sufficient to describe this building interface as anything other than an arrival space.</li>
	<li>Include a subtle human-scaled micro canopy element (max 200mm) over the laneway that is integrated with the architectural language of the building. This should reinforce the ground level datum through a shadow line from the first floor, and mark a shift in materiality to a higher quality, more pedestrian-oriented finish (such as tiles, brick, timber, etc).</li>
	<li>Exclude all paint finished precast concrete from the lower levels of the podium fronting onto the laneway and ensure that all materials and detailing is to a high standard in response to a pedestrian scale. Resolve service doors / cabinets within this element as ‘key moments’ consistent with the evolving language of the shop fronts to Clarendon Street.</li>
</ul>
These suggested changes might be included as part of the planning permit conditions.

The application was considered under the former interim planning controls of Amendment C262 which requires:

<ul>
<li>A podium height up to 40.0 metres;</li>
	<li>Street setbacks of 5.0 metres above the podium;</li>
	<li>Tower setbacks to all boundaries, excluding streets, equal to 5% of the overall building height for buildings in excess of 100 metres in height; and</li>
	<li>A site plot ratio of 24:1.</li>
</ul>
The proposed development, should it receive Ministerial approval would join a number of other towers either under construction or mooted for this stretch of Clarendon Street such as BPM's Shadow Play and Pepper's Southbank, designed by Elenberg Fraser and Bruce Henderson Architects respectively.

<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/shadowplay.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="BPM's under construction ShadowPlay and Peppers Southbank. Images: redden and BHA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="333" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/shadowplay.jpg?itok=aW7-Lazn" title="BPM's under construction ShadowPlay and Peppers Southbank. Images: redden and BHA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>BPM's under construction ShadowPlay and Peppers Southbank. Images: redden and BHA</figcaption></figure>
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City of Melbourne provides conditional support for Southbank high-rise

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Pace Development Group, has recently outbid a number of other developers in acquiring two development sites in Melbourne’s North West, including a five-hectare former quarry site in Sunshine North for $34 million, which is set to become Pace’s first premium townhouse project. 

Director Shane Wilkinson says the Sunshine project will deliver townhouses on the Maribyrnong River's edge and presents an exciting opportunity to develop activated, community-focused housing that would add a large amount of amenity to the suburb. However, this does not necessarily signal a change in Pace's development strategy but rather represents the developer returning to its roots while maintaining its ongoing success in the apartment market as the core of the business. 

<blockquote>
Historically, the business was established developing townhouse units around Melbourne’s South East and graduated to medium density projects throughout inner-city Melbourne as our construction capability and experience grew. We’ve identified an enormous opportunity to apply our learnings from the luxury apartment market into estate developments, where there is unprecedented demand for quality, architecturally designed townhouses in inner-city areas.

This does not mean an abandoning of apartment projects for Pace - which I envisage remaining as our core business – but rather, an exciting opportunity to bring what we do so well in the apartment space to a booming area of the property market.

- Shane Wilkinson, Managing Director, Pace Development Group
</blockquote>

Pace has a number of apartment projects on the go in Melbourne's inner and middle suburbs with the group also gaining approval for a 12-level apartment building above Abbotsford's St Crispin House in August.

The new development at 247-259 Johnston Street will preserve the redbrick, heritage façade of St Crispin House - a remnant of Abbotsford's manufacturing past. - while also providing 136 apartments in addition to a 20-metre rooftop infinity pool, indoor and outdoor dining, lounge areas, a gymnasium and ground level retail which will add to the surrounding cafés, bars and eateries.

<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/image45_6_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pace of Abbotsford. Image: Pace Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="673" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image45_6_0.jpg?itok=9JoGzCNR" title="Pace of Abbotsford. Image: Pace Development Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pace of Abbotsford. Image: Pace Development Group</figcaption></figure>In a recent interview, Shane Wilkinson discusses what drives the continued success of the business he founded over 20 years ago and what his expectations are for the next 18 months to 5 years.

How have recent policy changes which have resulted in a noticeable drop in investor purchases affected the Pace business?

We have certainly seen a decrease in the number of investors buying into our developments since 1 July, however our developments have always been weighted to the owner-occupier so this change has not significantly affected our business.

I commend our banks and policymakers on precipitating the current correction in our market. No developer wants to see the market overheat – we are all supportive of the industry remaining viable for many years to come and as such, this flat-line in the property 
cycle, which I believe will be sustained for 18 months, is an important and healthy readjustment that we needed to undergo for the long-term sustainability of our industry

What characteristics do you look for when acquiring development sites?

We have a robust acquisitions process that places significant importance on brand attributes rather than just commercial viability. Of the 200 commercially attractive sites that I have been presented to buy over the last six months, only two met our stringent criteria.

The site must have convenient transport links with accessibility to the city; It must have the ability to integrate with and enhance the local community, and it must lend itself to the creation of a community neighbourhood that can sustain every amenity and luxury that 
residents have come to expect from Pace.

We don’t waiver on these commitments to amenity and lifestyle depending on the site’s location – we deliver to the same standard in every location we develop in.

Pace of Carnegie is a perfect example of this, in an area where many competitive developers have 
opted to scale down their offering to a suburban location.

By contrast, we saw an opportunity to elevate the standard of development in this area and have experienced incredible success with this strategy, selling out two thirds of this project within our first 
month of launching.

<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/image50_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pace of Carnegie. Image: Pace Development Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="381" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image50_9.jpg?itok=5hsdfLJy" title="Pace of Carnegie. Image: Pace Development Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pace of Carnegie. Image: Pace Development Group</figcaption></figure>What are your expectations for the Pace brand over the next 5 years?

Underpinning our reputation for architecturally considered, quality developments, has always been our brand – which is synonymous for client care, accountability on our promises and a long-term investment into the developments we deliver. Every person in our 
business is fluent in our brand values and how they are each individually responsible for delivering on them.

Over the next five years, I see this position in the marketplace strengthening as we invest further into initiatives like digital connectivity that improves how our residents engage with each other, how we respond to their needs, and how we can continue to maintain and 
improve their properties.

I see property purchasers becoming increasingly more educated – they demand superior service, visibility into construction processes, and an ongoing dialogue with the developer. We make it our priority to exceed these expectations and evolve with the needs of the market.
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Keeping Up the Pace with Shane Wilkinson

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Urban.com.au <a href="/news/three-collins-street-projects-begin-their-skyward-ascent">recently highlighted three key projects</a> which are shaping the western end of Collins Street. Today the attention turns to Collins Street's east end (I staunchly refuse to refer to it as the Paris End) whereafter what seems like an eternity and about 20 different design schemes, owners GICGRE appear to have finally settled on a design, as builder Multiplex pushes ahead with construction of the <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">80 Collins Street transformation</a>.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/80c_progress.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The progression of 80 Collins Street. Images: Various including Woods Bagot, Squint Opera, Floodslicer, OurVision."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="81" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/80c_progress.jpg?itok=v2jQR6mI" title="The progression of 80 Collins Street. Images: Various including Woods Bagot, Squint Opera, Floodslicer, OurVision." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The progression of 80 Collins Street. Images: Various including Woods Bagot, Squint Opera, Floodslicer, OurVision.</figcaption></figure>The earliest designs for the site were first mooted way back in 2008 and featured a green glazed tower wrapped in a diagrid structure, not too dissimilar to the under construction <a href="/buildings/avant-60-abeckett-street-melbourne">Avant</a> on A'beckett Street.  The design evolved to become two rectilinear volumes - one expressed as a cantilevering crystalline form attached to a ladder frame freestanding mass.

Over time a number of concepts were developed some including columns to support the cantilever others without any structural supports but the tower language, for the most part, remained the same. In other instances, the heights of the two volumes were interchanged with an enclosed rooftop garden crowning the building.

<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/elevations_comparison.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Elevation comparison from the first submitted design to a a couple of other iterations. Planning images: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="320" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/elevations_comparison.jpg?itok=xjfhz3jz" title="Elevation comparison from the first submitted design to a a couple of other iterations. Planning images: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Elevation comparison from the first submitted design to a a couple of other iterations. Planning images: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>The darker tones of the ladder frame structure and retail portal frames were eventually replaced with a visually brighter frame and streetscape treatment of stone and clear glazing.

The latest iteration for the $800 million development is the result of a collaboration between global locals <a href="/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, London’s Seventh Wave, <a href="/architects/unstudio">UNStudio</a> and Paris-based Jouin Manku. The design of the retail streetscape draws on the existing built fabric retained on site with an emphasis on proportions and human scale against the backdrop of a 190m tower.

<blockquote>
In our pursuit to create a globally relevant footprint, we have partnered with four of the world’s leading design firms to bring our vision to life. Woods Bagot, Seventh Wave, UN Studio and Jouin Manku, have each been engaged to create an enduring, mixed-use development, which harmonises the precinct with its environment and the people who will inhabit it.

 - QICGRE
</blockquote>

Included as part of the plans are Singapore-based hotelier, SilverNeedle's 300-room <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">NEXT hotel</a>, its second Melbourne hotel following the recent completion of its Sage hotel in Ringwood as part of the Eastland Shopping Centre expansion. The hotel is due to open in 2019. 

SIlverNeedle's commitment to operate the Little Collins Street hotel, in conjunction with QICGRE securing Macquarie Group as an anchor tenant for approximately 6000 sqm of commercial office space in the new $550 million tower, allowed the project to finally commence after 9 years. Macquarie Group will relocate from their current premises at 101 Collins Street. 
The existing tower once known as Nauru house will also undergo a significant refurbishment as part of the 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/view05_day_final_v02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="80 Collins Street will transform the Exhibition Street streetscape. Image: QICGRE "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="356" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/view05_day_final_v02.jpg?itok=601fgJyW" title="80 Collins Street will transform the Exhibition Street streetscape. Image: QICGRE " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>80 Collins Street will transform the Exhibition Street streetscape. Image: QICGRE</figcaption></figure><h2>80 Collins Street at a Glance</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: QICGRE</li>
	<li>Design Team: Woods Bagot, UNStudio, Seventh Wave, Jouin Manku</li>
	<li>Builder: <a href="/builders/multiplex">Multiplex</a>
</li>
	<li>Tenants: Macquarie</li>
	<li>35 levels of PCA Premium Grade offices over 43,000 sqm in South Tower</li>
	<li>Floor plates of 1,250 - 1,350 sqm</li>
	<li>Targeting 5 Star NABERS</li>
	<li>6 Star Green Star Design</li>
	<li>Lifestyle Centre with change rooms and approx. 340 lockers, 32 showers and 290 secure bike racks</li>
	<li>80 Collins Lounge: A semi-private and informal collaborative space outside the office supported by the 80 Collins restaurants and hotel</li>
	<li>9,000 sqm of retail including luxury and lifestyle brands </li>
	<li>300-room NEXT hotel by SilverNeedle to Little Collins Street</li>
	<li>Anticipated completion date 2020</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/gw_80c.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Construction is progressing on site with two cranes now in operation. Image: Glenn Wilson, SkyscraperCity"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gw_80c.jpg?itok=-_qzC27j" title="Construction is progressing on site with two cranes now in operation. Image: Glenn Wilson, SkyscraperCity" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Construction is progressing on site with two cranes now in operation. Image: Glenn Wilson, SkyscraperCity</figcaption></figure>
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The evolution of 80 Collins Street

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The development of a 13-storey apartment building as part of a larger site development at Ormond Station to be called Ormond Place can proceed following approval from Planning Minister Richard Wynne. The approval comes following a public hearing held at Planning Panels Victoria and based on advice from a Standing Advisory Committee in and which drew strong community backlash against what has been dubbed the 'Sky Tower.'

Ormond Place will be delivered by VicTrack and developer DealCorp who has engaged architects Clarke Hopkins Clarke to develop a concept for a mixed-use scheme above Ormond Station. The station's rebuild was completed last year as part of the Level Crossing Removal project.

The development peaks at 13 storeys along North Road and drops to 6 storeys further away from the major thoroughfare. A supermarket and shops are expected adjacent to the station entry, whilst townhouses will be developed along Newham Grove, concealing the car parking beyond.

<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/project_north_road_ormond.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The 13-storey over site development (OSD) to be developed above Ormond Station. Image: VicTrack"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="249" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/project_north_road_ormond.jpg?itok=3gAABtcs" title="The 13-storey over site development (OSD) to be developed above Ormond Station. Image: VicTrack" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The 13-storey over site development (OSD) to be developed above Ormond Station. Image: VicTrack</figcaption></figure>A material palette has been employed which draws on the local context and character of the area, featuring timber, red brick and a more contemporary light brick, with an integrated landscape strategy to soften the buildings visually.

Ormond Place aims to build on VicTrack's mandate of developing surplus rail land into higher density outcomes with traditional developers brought in as development partners. IKON Glen Waverley is complete, while Jewell Station and Hampton Station precinct are also in the works.

<h2>Jewell Station </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/jewell_01.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Jewell Station's new Urban Village. Images: BKK Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="253" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jewell_01.png?itok=-Wm6kyAU" title="Jewell Station's new Urban Village. Images: BKK Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Jewell Station's new Urban Village. Images: BKK Architects</figcaption></figure>A partnership between VicTrack and Neometro, the redevelopment of the Jewell Station precinct in Brunswick seeks to create a "New Urban Village." following approval of plans of the station precinct development in 2016.

As part of the development, existing derelict buildings on VicTrack-owned land will be replaced by two 8-storey mixed-use buildings, containing ground floor retail and 122 one, two and three bedroom apartments.

The development will help fund improvements to the station forecourt and public realm with the historic Jewell Station building forming the centrepiece of this key civic space. The station forecourt will also feature a community garden area and artistic and cultural spaces for the local community.

Access to the station will also be improved as part of the development with a new ramp and stairs, increased bike parking, and the upgrade of the Upfield bike path.

<h2>Hampton Station precinct</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/36_30-03-2017_1082.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A working image for Hampton Station precinct. Image: epc.Pacifric"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/36_30-03-2017_1082.jpg?itok=2fCRcJeK" title="A working image for Hampton Station precinct. Image: epc.Pacifric" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A working image for Hampton Station precinct. Image: epc.Pacific</figcaption></figure>Developer epc.Pacific is working with VicTrack and the Department of Health and Human Services to deliver a new $120 million predominantly residential precinct alongside Hampton Station.

Intended to become an exemplary residential project, Village @ Hampton as it has been dubbed sits on a 7,056sqm tract of land. Apartments along with a new retail/entertainment and new public plaza are envisaged.

According to epc.Pacific's website "the design of the project is being undertaken by internationally recognised and highly awarded Australian Design companies, Ashton Raggatt McDougall (ARM) Architects, Jam Architects and Rush Wright. Fronting Koolkuna Lane, the overhaul is slated to begin shortly.
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On the right track: Ormond Place gets the green light

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The appeal of being located in close proximity to the World Heritage-listed Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens continues to be a major selling point for developers, with a handful seeking to take advantage of the views afforded by the northern location.

Developer SP Setia has recently experienced this appeal first hand, with their Sapphire by the Gardens development passing the 80 per cent sold mark. The remaining 20 per cent of apartments will be marketed during two exclusive events in Sydney and Melbourne in coming weeks.

<div>
<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/sbtg_interior_render_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sapphire By The Gardens apartment interior. Image: SP Setia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="302" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sbtg_interior_render_3.jpg?itok=4RN28wU4" title="Sapphire By The Gardens apartment interior. Image: SP Setia" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sapphire By The Gardens apartment interior. Image: SP Setia</figcaption></figure>
</div>

<ul></ul>
<blockquote>
A small number of the remaining apartments overlook the iconic, UNESCO world heritage listed, Royal Exhibition Building and its surrounding Carlton Gardens. These apartments will boast some of the most impressive views in Melbourne, as will the limited remaining apartments overlooking Melbourne’s CBD.

Sapphire By The Gardens has been carefully designed to the highest architectural standards and we are excited to watch this development evolve and settle into this iconic location.

- Mr Choong Ka Wai, CEO of SP Setia Melbourne
</blockquote>

<div>
The first tower, Sapphire By The Gardens will accommodate 345 residential apartments and residents will be able to access a range of amenities, including spa and sauna facilities, gymnasium and yoga area, infinity-edged pool and residents dining lounge just to name a few.

A second tower connected to the first by a sky-bridge will deliver 500 suites as part of Melbourne’s first Shangri-La branded hotel that s is scheduled for completion - along with the rest of the development - during 2021. 
</div>

Not too far away a number of other developments are at various stages of their respective development lifecycles, with UEM Sunrise's Conservatory the most advanced in terms of progress. Under the lead of head contractor Hickory, construction of the COX Architecture-designed 37-storey apartment tower is racing skyward at a feverish pace.

Conservatory will at completion add 473 dwellings, designed around views towards the Carlton Gardens. The main entry lobby is flanked by a new north-south retail laneway with tenancies located within a series of pods designed to activate the streetscape.

<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/conservatory_hickory.png" rel="gallery-all" title="UEM Sunrise's Conservatory apartments are rising opposite the Carlton Gardens."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="579" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/conservatory_hickory.png?itok=cmM4W7pG" title="UEM Sunrise's Conservatory apartments are rising opposite the Carlton Gardens." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>UEM Sunrise's Conservatory apartments are rising opposite the Carlton Gardens.</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The sculptural tower form has been configured to maximise the number of units that have the best views to Carlton Gardens, unencumbered views to the north, as well as view corridors through existing and approved developments to the south.

The curved form of the building maximising the facade area to allow the greatest amount of glazed frontage, allowing optimal natural light penetration to more unit areas while the environmental fins modulate solar penetration. The top of the tower incorporates an environmental crown housing PV cells and water harvesting measures, creating a dynamic highlight to the form to transition from the mass and bulk of the adjacent tower down to the smaller scale of the tower to the east and the gardens below. 

- COX Architecture
</blockquote>

Conservatory is expected to be completed late next year, while another project directly opposite was recently submitted for planning consideration. Should it be granted approval 23-29 Victoria Street will accommodate 90 apartments within a 25-storey building located on a 894sqm wedge-shaped site with two street frontages, currently occupied by a service station.

Similar to Sapphire by the Gardens and Conservatory, the Woods Bagot designed scheme for Perri Projects has drawn on its location opposite Carlton Gardens, with apartments oriented to best maximise a northerly aspect.

<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_14_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="23-29 Victoria Street as rendered from Drummond Street. Planning image: Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_14_0.jpg?itok=WkAiXx32" title="23-29 Victoria Street as rendered from Drummond Street. Planning image: Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>23-29 Victoria Street as rendered from Drummond Street. Planning image: Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>Lastly the long dormant former Cancer Council headquarters building at 1 Rathdowne Street on the corner with Victoria Street continues to languish with little movement on the key corner site.

The 3,100sqm sold for in excess of $16 million during 2013 to Kingisland Timber Pty Ltd. The owner has yet to progress any plans for the site, despite having received approval in 2015 for the conversion of the existing building, which has been described by Lord Mayor Robert Doyle as one of Melbourne's worst eyesores, into a Indoor (trampoline) Recreation Centre. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/1-23_rathdowne_street.png" rel="gallery-all" title="1 Rathdowne Street has approval in place for a Indoor Trampoline Centre. No joke. Image: Latitude Developments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="273" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/1-23_rathdowne_street.png?itok=cYj79Afo" title="1 Rathdowne Street has approval in place for a Indoor Trampoline Centre. No joke. Image: Latitude Developments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>1 Rathdowne Street has approval for a Indoor Trampoline Centre. Image: Latitude Developments</figcaption></figure>One suspects it won't be long before the owners either on sell the site or draft up plans for a residential scheme for what is one of the most prominent sites in the northern CBD.
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The X factor - 308 Exhibition set to join the Carlton Gardens line up

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Melbourne Quarter last week took a major step forward with the completion of a new deck overlooking Wurundjeri Way. Once completed, the deck will connect the precinct’s three commercial towers and form the ground level of the precinct’s public square on Collins Street, which will be one of the most significant public spaces in the central city. 
Melbourne Quarter's footprint will see more than 50 per cent dedicated toward public space, including the elevated Skypark garden perched above Collins Street. From the public's perspective Skypark will combine a green city square with retailers, bars and restaurants; all flanked by Lendlease's three commercial towers.

<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/one_melbourne_quarter_commercial_building.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One Melbourne Quarter and its Sky Garden will rise above Collins Street West. Image: Lendlease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/one_melbourne_quarter_commercial_building.jpg?itok=qxhOE_Lr" title="One Melbourne Quarter and its Sky Garden will rise above Collins Street West. Image: Lendlease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One Melbourne Quarter and its Sky Garden will rise above Collins Street West. Image: Lendlease</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Melbourne Quarter will bridge the gap between Docklands and the CBD, as the commercial centre of the city moves westward. As Melbourne Quarter becomes more visible on the city’s skyline, it signals Lendlease’s confidence in Melbourne’s commercial growth in the Southern Cross Precinct and the continued appetite for smarter, more energy-efficient offices.

Our first commercial building is testament to the desire for contemporary, well-designed offices in the city’s best connected location and the continued tenant interest in the project.

Arup and Lendlease will relocate their Victorian workforces to One Melbourne Quarter next year, taking up three and four levels of office space respectively. In the coming months, we expect to make further announcements on more leading businesses that will become part of our new and exciting city neighbourhood.

Mark Menhinnitt: Managing Director for Urban Regeneration and Infrastructure Development
</blockquote>

The precinct’s next office tower, Two Melbourne Quarter, was lodged for planning in late July, whilst construction on One Melbourne Quarter commenced during October last year. A total of seven commercial and residential buildings will be delivered in the precinct.

Once completed, Melbourne Quarter will offer approximately 130,000sqm of flexible office space for more than 12,000 employees, and will be home to approximately 3,000 residents.

<iframe allowfullscreen="true" allowtransparency="true" class="source-view" frameborder="0" height="400" mozallowfullscreen="true" scrolling="no" src="https://embed.widencdn.net/video/lendlease/h2zkrpekpw?u=chxvls" webkitallowfullscreen="true" width="100%"></iframe>

As Lendlease advances the Melbourne Quarter's footprint, the above-mentioned projects will expand the development further south toward Flinders Street.

Lendlease has applied to relocate Bunjil (below right) further south along the Wurundjeri Way road reservation. This would likely occur prior to the commencement of Melbourne Quarter's two more substantial commercial towers, with the taller reaching 27 levels.

From a public interest perspective, Lendlease have also secured approval from Heritage Victoria to restore 220 metres of historic 1890's red brick retaining wall facing Flinders Street. Sometimes referred to as the 'Wailing Wall', the polychrome brick structure will eventually be punctured in order to create a Flinders Street entrance for the forthcoming residential towers that doubles as a new public link connecting Melbourne Quarter to Spencer Street.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image5_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Quarter's September progress. Image: Ryan Seychell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image5_13.jpg?itok=urERr0l0" title="Melbourne Quarter's September progress. Image: Ryan Seychell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Quarter's September progress. Image: Ryan Seychell</figcaption></figure>
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Melbourne Quarter bridges the gap between the CBD and Docklands

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First mooted early last year, the long awaited facelift to Rebecca Walk looks set to proceed following a call out for "40 energetic street food traders" back in January of this year and planning approvals.

New plans were conceived for the largely empty row of pods which occupy the under croft of the Flinders St Viaduct adjacent to Batman Park on the CBD's Northbank. Rebecca Walk takes its name from the schooner ‘Rebecca’ which John Batman sailed into the Yarra and celebrates the historical connection between 'Batman' and 'Rebecca'.

<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/rebecca-walk2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The existing condition of Rebecca Walk. Image: https://cityplanningbrisbane.files.wordpress.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/rebecca-walk2.jpg?itok=VqpR24_2" title="The existing condition of Rebecca Walk. Image: https://cityplanningbrisbane.files.wordpress.com" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The existing condition of Rebecca Walk. Image: https://cityplanningbrisbane.files.wordpress.com</figcaption></figure>Developed in parallel with Far East Consortium's Northbank Place development on the site of the former Fish Markets, Rebecca Walk was envisioned as a catalyst and drawcard for Northbank which activated an otherwise underutilised space.

Businessman Arthur Zurcas announced plans last year to rejuvenate the area into the city’s “newest explosive food and entertainment hot spot”.

The proposed plan would replace the existing pods with purpose built micro-kitchens, and semi-permanent shipping containers, transforming the area into a street food hub.  Other features would include outdoor entertainment, and activities, street art, an outdoor cinema and an elevated deck overlooking Batman Park.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img-1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="233" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img-1.jpg?itok=7KWYp3B5" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground Plan of Rebecca Walk showing occupation of car parking. Image: rebeccawalk.com.au</figcaption></figure>The plans indicate the food hub will extend beyond the current boundary occupying a greater footprint and replacing a number of car parking spaces while also creating a shared pedestrian/vehicle space in place of a service driveway.

An application was lodged last year for 2-92 Rebecca Walk for the "Erection and display of artwork on a hoarding" (City of Melbourne reference TP-2016-1045) followed by a further application (TP-2016-1118) on the 29th December which was for:

<blockquote>
Partial demolition and development of the land for the purpose of a food and drink premises (excluding hotel and tavern) and for the construction and display of internally illuminated business identification
</blockquote>

A permit was issued on the 4th August which paves the way for Rebecca Walk's transformation to proceed. It appears to be a case of when not if the rebranded Rebecca Walk will proceed but one hazard's a guess it should be up and running in time for summer.

<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-2.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="233" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img-2.jpg?itok=agQ8Q723" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Rebecca Walk is set to become a street food and outdoor entertainment hub. Image: rebeccawalk.com.au</figcaption></figure>For further information check out: http://www.rebeccawalk.com.au/

 
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Rebecca Walk's long awaited transformation set to finally get underway?

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Urban.com.au has <a href="/news/collins-street-west-set-for-significant-change">previously highlighted</a> the significant transformation that is currently underway along the western reaches of Collin Street with three projects currently under construction and a number of others due to begin in the next few years.

The three projects in question - Collins Arch, Collins House and <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Olderfleet </a>- have all recently had cranes erected following months of demolition and early site works, allowing these three skyline changing projects to begin rising out of the ground.

Together these three projects will also deliver 3,500 sqm of public realm, almost 100,000 sqm of office space, 294 hotel suites and 469 apartments between them over the next 3 years.

Below is a snapshot of the current state of play on each of these 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/half1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Olderfleet (Mirvac), Collins House (Golden Age), Collins Arch (Cbus Property)"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="230" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/half1.jpg?itok=ESC3ZIid" title="Olderfleet (Mirvac), Collins House (Golden Age), Collins Arch (Cbus Property)" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Olderfleet (Mirvac), Collins House (Golden Age), Collins Arch (Cbus Property)</figcaption></figure><h2>Collins Arch</h2>

The dual tower development affectionately referred to as 'the pantscraper' has the beginnings of its cores visible with the jump form no too far off.

The development has some way to go before it reaches Collins Street but with Multiplex at the helm its core should begin poking out above the street in the next few months, with the basement levels to follow. Its unique form will most likely appear on the skyline from mid next year.

Upon completion, the 41-storey Collins Arch will feature 294 hotel rooms, 43,000sqm of office space, 202 apartments and a 1,500 sqm park which will add much needed green space into the heart of the city. The Woods Bagot &amp; SHoP designed project will rise to a height of 143m.

<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/collins_arch_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Collins Arch construction progress. Images: (L-R) redden, Zekebe"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="274" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/collins_arch_1.jpg?itok=-OJco8gv" title="Collins Arch construction progress. Images: (L-R) redden, Zekebe" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Collins Arch construction progress. Images: (L-R) redden, Zekebe</figcaption></figure><h2>Collins House</h2>

Golden Age's 204m <a href="/buildings/collins-house-melbourne-460-466-collins-street-melbourne">Collins House project</a> will be Australia's thinnest tower and as the below photos illustrate this is not without its challenges as the site's narrow footprint, constraints of neighbouring buildings and a single point of access created issues with the amount of room available to manoeuvre the various pieces of plant required for the ground works.

Despite this construction of the Bates Smart-designed residential tower is expected to pick up with builder Hickory employing its HBS construction method, with the site serviced by a single tower crane and major elements including façade and precast fabricated off-site and rapidly assembled on arrival to Collins Street.

Prefabricated Hickory structural units will be used from level 14 onwards, following the completion of conventional formwork construction. As a result of these construction techniques, the construction programme will be reduced by up to 30%.

<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/p8290453.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Collins House construction progress. Images: redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="215" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/p8290453.jpg?itok=GepRXhcM" title="Collins House construction progress. Images: redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Collins House construction progress. Images: redden</figcaption></figure><h2>Olderfleet</h2>

Construction of Mirvac's Olderfleet project is in full swing with a targeted completion date of July 2020, when anchor tenant Deloitte will relocate into their Grimshaw-designed digs. In addition to the erection of the first crane behind the Olderlfleet buildings a gantry has also been installed to Collins Street.

The remnants of the 80's office building's western core is visible as the structure provides temporary structural support to the Olderfleet buildings. It will eventually be removed once the new structural elements are built. 

The now exposed rear of the Olderfleet buildings will once again disappear from view as the floor plates rise and obscure the view from the street. The southern facade will be cleaned and restored providing a unique backdrop to the projects lobby and 30m high atrium.

<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/p8270421.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Olderfleet construction progress. Images: redden"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="213" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/p8270421.jpg?itok=oMRx87g-" title="Olderfleet construction progress. Images: redden" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Olderfleet construction progress. Images: redden</figcaption></figure>Lead Image: redden
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Three Collins Street projects begin their skyward ascent

<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.

&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.

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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