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11 years after the ARM designed refurbishment works for centre owners GPT / Lend Lease were completed, the landscape of the northern quadrant of the Melbourne CBD has changed significantly. Cranes and construction currently dominate the northern reaches of Elizabeth Street as a number of skyscrapers begin their skyward ascent.

<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/north_cbd.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Forest of towers to come"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="350" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/north_cbd.png?itok=vOsxWI9P" title="Forest of towers to come" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Forest of towers to come</figcaption></figure>One element of the refurbished Melbourne Central that bothered me when it reopened and continues to do so is the Elizabeth / La Trobe Street corner. This has always been a prominent corner site but has become even moreso as the city evolves. I consider it to be an underwhelming entry to the centre and station environment below and believe it could offer more.

With that in mind, I've done a quick study at what a reconfigured corner might look like, taking into account the C262 planning controls.

Following a quick analysis of the site area and applying a plot ratio of 24:1 as per the interim controls we are left with 262,940sqm which can be developed. This is illustrated in the diagram below.

<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/mc_diagrams.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Site area and plot ratio diagram"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="153" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mc_diagrams.png?itok=IperSpDM" title="Site area and plot ratio diagram" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Site area and plot ratio diagram</figcaption></figure>Any additional high-rise development of considerable size on the Melbourne Central site should be located away from Swanston and closer to Elizabeth Street. Doing so reduces the potential for overshadowing to the State Library forecourt.

Additionally locating it along the northern edge allows for generous exposure to natural daylight to apartments. Adding apartments to the mix of programme also further develops the concept of Melbourne Central as a Transit Oriented Development (TOD) which forms part of a much broader discussion relating to what shopping centres are and the potential for what they could be.

I believe they can work harder and function as more than just retail destinations but thriving neighbourhoods in their own right.

In investigating the concept of the potential for a residential tower on the site I was interested in the opportunities it may present in also helping to facilitate an improved street condition and corner address for the centre. As the suite of diagrams below illustrates, the first move was to provide a 40 metre high podium for the existing Melbourne Central Office Tower and the new residential tower.

I wanted to retain the internal laneway condition and further develop it so it slices through the full height of the podium and would have various uses interfacing with it.

<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/mc_diagrams_02.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Process diagram"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="314" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/mc_diagrams_02.png?itok=N34lKmdZ" title="Process diagram" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Process diagram</figcaption></figure>The rationale behind the tower foot print and core location was to draw on the geometry of the office tower to maximise northern exposure, minimise southern outlook. Further to this, due to the floorplate geometry, views are directed away from the office tower and vice-versa. Locating the core to the south ensures no overlooking from the office tower into any apartments.

The tower would rise 160 metres above the 40 metre podium with a tapered roof form which creates a series of terraces to the east but also ensures no overshadowing of the State Library forecourt. The angle of the slope matches that of the Melbourne Central Office tower drawing on the form and geometry - a shared DNA.

The podium would be expressed as two elements of a consistent and coherent volume but would be articulated differently, reflecting the difference in programme but also the two different conditions that they interface with.

Atop this podium is green open space shared by both towers and the centre. The office tower would be reconfigured so that further food and beverage would spill out onto this space. The loss of office space would be replaced within the podium which would increase the overall floor area of the tower.

Stay tuned as I'll be looking to <a href="/news/addressing-elizabeth-street-melbourne-central-part-two">develop this a bit more</a> in the coming weeks beyond just some simple massing and into something resembling an architectural proposition.
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Laurence Dragomir

Addressing Elizabeth Street: Melbourne Central (part one)

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Located less than six kilometres from the Melbourne CBD, Flemington Racecourse occupies a 125ha site in an area undergoing significant transformation and growth. Managed by the Victoria Racing Club (VRC), a long-term master plan was developed for the facility during 2009, with the aim of maximising revenue opportunities for the ongoing investment in facilities for the racecourse and significant capital expenditure undertakings such as replacement of the Member's Old Grandstand.

Part of this master plan involved the sale of non-core land to generate the funds for investment in new facilities.

Enter Greenland Group, China's largest real estate developer which acquired two sites covering a combined 40,000sqm. Known as Flemington Green and Epsom Road, these land holdings were surplus to the needs of the VRC and were offloaded to Greenland Group with the expectation of large-scale development.

The revenue from their sale would then be invested towards the development of the new Club Stand seen below.

<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/829.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Club Stand. Image courtesy of Bates Smart."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="287" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/829.jpg?itok=kjfb93Bn" title="The Club Stand. Image courtesy of Bates Smart." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Club Stand is expected to be built shortly. Image courtesy of Bates Smart.</figcaption></figure>Flemington Green occupies 30,000sqm of land, situated between Fisher Parade and Leonard Crescent. The site is located at the high point of the promontory above the Racecourse and the Maribyrnong River. The site's existing uses consist primarily of open lot car parks and three dwellings along Fisher Parade.

Epsom Road on the other hand occupies approximately 10,000sqm of land and is adjacent to the intersection of Epsom, Racecourse and Ascot Vale Roads, at the end of the Racecourse Road Activity Centre. The site is currently undeveloped with the exception of a single level building: the heritage listed Former Jockeys’ Convalescent Lodge which will be retained as part of any future development onsite.

Greenland's plans for the sites were revealed late last year when - together with the VRC - it submitted a Planning Scheme Amendment Request with the Minister for Planning, which sought to change the planning controls for both sites. This would allow for the developer to move forward with plans for its 'Flemington Life' development, consisting of four towers ranging in height from 14-storeys (AHD 73.7m) to 31-storeys (AHD 123.9m), supported by medium-density dwellings across a further six buildings.

<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/flemington_life_dwelling_types.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Flemington Green height and dwelling types. Image courtesy Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="331" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flemington_life_dwelling_types.jpg?itok=xdP57VOE" title="Flemington Green height and dwelling types. Image courtesy Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Flemington Green height and dwelling types. Image courtesy Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>An Indicative Development Concept (IDC) has been prepared for both sites which provides extensive details on the type of development that could be accommodated across the two sites. These do not represent the final form of any development on the site, but rather reflect the type, scale and siting of built form that maybe be permitted within the parameters proposed under the new planning controls.

The building envelopes shown in the proposed Comprehensive Development Zone for the low-rise component only allow for variations in height and setbacks.

The IDC for the Flemington Green site, as prepared by <a href="http://www.woodsbagot.com/">Woods Bagot</a>, seeks the development of 736 dwellings, based on a built form that comprises three residential towers, two street level podia and a lower density precinct containing townhouse and apartment buildings up to 4-storeys. The proposal also includes scope for a small amount of ancillary retail, commercial space and community facilities that will provide local services for residents.

<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_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Flemington Green as rendered from Fischer Parade. Image courtesy Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="370" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image45_1.jpg?itok=WVtqZp8H" title="Flemington Green as rendered from Fischer Parade. Image courtesy Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Flemington Green as rendered from Fischer Parade. Image courtesy Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The architectural design response adopts a rectilinear architectural language at the perimeter of the master plan and transforms this language to a curved formal language in the centre. This curved formal language continues into the tower geometry, referencing Flemington Racecourse’s distinctive curvilinear shape.
<cite>Woods Bagot</cite>
</blockquote>

The three towers which are expected to form Flemington Green are all distinguished by individual responses to articulation of facades, which draw on the characteristics of the racecourse. These are summarised below:

<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/flemington_green_facades.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Facade reference images. Image courtesy Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="228" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flemington_green_facades.jpg?itok=49qo4s3A" title="Facade reference images. Image courtesy Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Facade reference images. Image courtesy Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure><ul>
<li>
Tower 1, 25-storeys - The Veil: The design concept for the new facade expresses the Flemington’s fascination with fashion.The entire building is enclosed by a skeletal metal frame, which like a veil conveys a mysterious and ambiguous definition by discreetly revealing what is behind. The veil creates a dynamic gesture and form.</li>
	<li>
Tower 2, 20-storeys - The Farrier: The facade design concept is derived from the materiality and tectonic nature of the farriers tools. This is represented by the curvaceous external balconies forms which are asymmetrically offset to create a sculptural form.</li>
	<li>
Tower 3, 14-storeys - Silks: The facade design concept references the silky shiny colours of the jockeys outfit. The smooth curved form of the floor plan is emphasised by glassy exterior treatment, this is contrasted by the striking colours which highlight the recessed balconies.</li>
</ul>
The IDC for the Epsom Road seeks to deliver a high quality, high-density residential development at the apex of the Racecourse Road Activity Centre and Flemington Racecourse, providing a gateway to the precinct. The IDC allows for a 31-storey proposal with a total of 398 dwellings, based on a built form that comprises of a typical tower and podium format.

<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/flemington_life_epsom_rd.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Epsom Road Indicative Development Concept. Image courtesy Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="318" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/flemington_life_epsom_rd.jpg?itok=zpBcHn5c" title="Epsom Road Indicative Development Concept. Image courtesy Woods Bagot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Epsom Road Indicative Development Concept. Image courtesy Woods Bagot</figcaption></figure>While heavy with detail, it is worth noting that the above designs and images still designated as development concepts created to provide an indication of the planning controls that Greenland Group and Woods Bagot are seeking push through. Whether the development team largely retain the above designs once each land parcel is subject to individual planning submissions remains to be seen.
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Horses for courses: Greenland Group's Flemington Life in detail

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Signifying the rebirth of one of Melbourne’s most expansive regeneration sites, developer <a href="http://www.futureestate.com.au/">Future Estate</a> is pressing ahead with plans for the former Pentridge Prison, soon to be known as <a href="http://www.coburgquarter.com.au/">Coburg Quarter</a>.

The $1 billion Pentridge masterplan received approval from the Victorian Government and local Council late last year. With the approved masterplan also came the expectation that Future Estate could deliver a higher calibre of public space apartment living relative to that which has been completed onsite in recent years.

First to reach sales will be One Coburg Quarter, consisting of 150 apartments and set to be launched officially next month. Created by <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/">ROTHELOWMAN</a>, the design references the colourful industrial past of Coburg, particularly the old Pentridge prison and its signature bluestone edifice.

<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/12705561_1115088325192632_5634902824801960387_n.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A refashioned bluestone entrance. Image courtesy Future Estate"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="725" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/12705561_1115088325192632_5634902824801960387_n.jpg?itok=AXTYxZx8" title="A refashioned bluestone entrance. Image courtesy Future Estate" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A refashioned bluestone entrance. Image courtesy Future Estate</figcaption></figure>Apartments.com.au recently sat down with Future Estate Founder and Managing Director, Ben Anderson to chat about the Coburg Quarter masterplan and vision, acknowledging the shortcomings of the previous owners' plans for the site and the opportunities presented by the site.

<blockquote>
Coburg Quarter will have a village feel in an urban context. It will be a natural extension of Melbourne's celebrated northern suburbs such as Brunswick, Northcote and Fitzroy. Its identity will be truly Northside, yet proudly and distinctly Coburg.

Civic quarters around the world are known for their unique character. Coburg Quarter will follow this tradition, as an exciting urban community that will enhance the area by bringing together people, art, design commerce and culture.
<cite>Ben Anderson, Founder and Managing Director, Future Estate</cite>
</blockquote>

Anderson explained to Apartments.com.au that Future Estate bought the Pentridge land holding out of receivership, a similar strategy previously employed by the developer. He says part of what Future Estate does best is "buying things that are broken and fixing them" where others may struggle to see the potential.

The 4.2ha site has approval in place for over 1,400 apartments and townhouses that will accommodate 3000-4000 residents, with a development schedule stretched over a 10 year period and with an estimated project value of more than $1 billion. This ranks Coburg Quarter as one of the largest urban infill sites in Melbourne.

Future Estate are considering opportunities to re-skin some of the built form which was developed on site by the previous owners, which Anderson describes as "underwhelming" as he does the existing outdoor communal spaces onsite. Working with largely the same envelopes as the previously approved master plan and seeking to improve rather than beginning from scratch, one of the biggest changes revolves around creating a village centre for the development, drawing inspiration from the great squares in Europe, essentially forming a heart for the development.

This would act as a drawcard to the site, not just for residents but the community at large.

Another opportunity being explored is a Farmer's Market which would include a significant amount of micro retail, by locally-based boutique operators who can't necessarily afford to lease a large retail space. These would be based around food, craft and even furniture, and would spill out onto the new community square.

<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/image137.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Technē's new interpretation of Pentridge"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="204" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image137.jpg?itok=px4cKGM_" title="Technē's new interpretation of Pentridge" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Technē's new interpretation of Pentridge</figcaption></figure>Anderson acknowledges the community's frustration with the site's lack of progress thus far:

<blockquote>
We understand the community is frustrated, which is why we believe actions speak louder than words. We have already commissioned the transformation the old laundry building into a micro-brewery and bar, with work commencing on this and the proposed Coburg Public Square later this year.
<cite>Ben Anderson, Founder and Managing Director, Future Estate</cite>
</blockquote>

As part of Coburg Quarter, Future Estate are also investigating potential uses for the former D Division prison block, while architects Techne are incorporating key heritage features including the bluestone walls, solitary confinement cells and historic laundry equipment into the micro-brewery design. Coburg Brewing Co. will be headed by Danial Caneva, owner of the nearby Post Office Hotel, with the launch date currently slated for July this year.

In addition Future Estate plans to have the café and dining precinct open and operational before the end of 2016.

Of the living options, One Coburg Quarter will be launched next month and consist of 150 apartments. Created by <a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/">ROTHELOWMAN</a>, the design references the colourful industrial past of Coburg, particularly the old Pentridge prison and its signature bluestone edifice.

<blockquote>
Announcing entry into Coburg Quarter from the wider precinct defined by Sydney Road and Bell Street, One Coburg Quarter sits proudly above the historic walls with a strong yet respectful presence. Seen in the round the building presents at the civic scale as a singular and sculptural form, its curved and modulated facades establishing a sophisticated dialogue with the robust and linear nature of the old heritage fabric.

Inspired by its context, the strong horizontal manifestation of the bluestone and mortar courses is reflected in the articulation and expression of the new facades. The primary expression of One Coburg Quarter is of a composition of larger horizontal elements, orchestrated in a way which alludes to the stack bonding of the bluestone walls.
<cite>Shane Rothe, Director, ROTHELOWMAN</cite>
</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/v03_exterior_hover_reduced.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="One Coburg Quarter, hero perspective. Image courtesy of Future Estate"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="846" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/v03_exterior_hover_reduced.jpg?itok=vPJSigQF" title="One Coburg Quarter, hero perspective. Image courtesy of Future Estate" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>One Coburg Quarter, hero perspective. Image courtesy of Future Estate</figcaption></figure>Future Estate asked ROTHELOWMAN to conceive a building that made a strong unique statement, distinguishing it from the earlier buildings on site. Anderson says that in response, Future Estate has made a commitment to not compromising on the quality of the facade, estimated to cost in the vicinity of approximately $1000 per square metre. This is in keeping with the company's ethos of developing buildings which look just as they are depicted in the marketing material, if not better.

One Coburg Quarter will feature a 'living lobby' entered via a courtyard, which gives the impression of entering a home, rather than a commercial type foyer that other developments provide. Also included is a library, free wi-fi plus a residents' bar and communal kitchen with Future Estate looking to encourage Friday night drinks by the owner's corporation to promote and facilitate the idea of a community within the building.
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Pentridge reborn: what Coburg Quarter holds for the public

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Located in Melbourne’s western suburbs, Williams Landing is a 275 hectare masterplanned community proposed to include approximately 3000 dwellings, integrated with the suburb’s newly upgraded railway station, amenities and town centre.

The area has been identified within the Plan Melbourne strategy as a key ‘activity centre,’ providing surrounding populations with retail and service amenity, as well commercial employment precincts. Its position as a transit-oriented development allows for convenient commuting to and from the city, helping to ease issues associated with rapid population growth in Melbourne’s west.

According to a report prepared by economists MacroPlan Dimasi, Williams Landing holds the potential to employ more than 23,000 people – the majority of these in white-collar fields – based on its strategic location within one of Australia’s fastest growing municipalities, the City of Wyndham.

Williams Landing developer Cedar Woods Properties has made creating the new employment cluster a priority in order to grow opportunities for local workers and businesses in Melbourne’s west and to assist in drawing congestion away from the CBD.

<blockquote>
In terms of its natural attributes, Williams Landing is particularly well-placed to pick up significant numbers of white-collar jobs. With significant quantities of commercial land identified within the Williams Landing master plan, there are unlikely to be constraints in regard to the availability of commercial land at Williams Landing.
<cite>MacroPlan Dimasi report</cite>
</blockquote>

The state government is supportive of this move, assigning Williams Landing as a designated ‘Priority Development Zone.’ This status allows for flexible planning and the creation of large scale commercial, retail and mixed-use developments without height limits – ideal for multi-storey office buildings.

<blockquote>
The creation of these jobs could reduce commute times for residents, many of whom currently travel outside of the Wyndham area for work, and make Wyndham a place for long term business. In order to establish more employment opportunities, Cedar Woods will continue to leverage Williams Landing’s natural attributes and foster residents’ sense of place.
<cite>Nathan Blackburne, Cedar Woods State Manager Victoria and Queensland</cite>
</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/williams_landing_railway_station.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Williams Landing Railway Station. Source: Wikipedia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="295" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/williams_landing_railway_station.jpg?itok=UUSXtH9u" title="Williams Landing Railway Station. Source: Wikipedia" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Williams Landing Railway Station. Source: Wikipedia</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au sat down with Cedar Woods State Manager Victoria and Queensland Nathan Blackburne at the company's St Kilda Road office to discuss the developer's vision for Williams Landing as a key activity centre and commercial employment cluster.

“We first began developing Williams Landing seven years ago, envisioning the site as a masterplanned community with strong connections to state infrastructure,” Blackburne says.

“The site held huge potential with the train station, freeway interchange, community car park and bus terminal,” Blackburne says.

Working closely with the state government, Cedar Woods began planning the creation of a first class community alongside a major employment cluster to service Melbourne's west.

For Cedar Woods, getting the planning right and working with the state government on infrastructure was critical for developing Williams Landing, followed by providing supporting retail amenity.

Cedar Woods has already delivered stage one of the shopping centre with an expansion starting in February. Future stages are planned to o include a Big W store. Subsequent stages will also see the centre grow to become a sub regional centre.

Additionally, a number of medium-density projects are on the cards for Williams Landing, with the suburb’s first multi-residential project the Newton Apartments being released to the market recently. The new typology has seen strong sales already and demand from a range of buyer types with presales of 80 per cent achieved.

<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/newton_apartments_external2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Newton Apartments at Williams Landing. Image courtesy Cedar Woods"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/newton_apartments_external2.jpg?itok=bH4xaU7q" title="Newton Apartments at Williams Landing. Image courtesy Cedar Woods" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Newton Apartments at Williams Landing. Image courtesy Cedar Woods</figcaption></figure>With the residential component of Williams Landing now well advanced with three out of four neighbourhoods sold and under construction and the town centre well underway, attention is turning to the employment generating components of the project.

The 50 hectare town centre has the potential to accommodate a significant number of employment opportunities. According to Blackburne, many residents of the suburb also work in the area, making the development of a major employment cluster an attractive proposition. The cluster would reduce the number of residents currently undertaking long commutes to get to work, with purchasers seeing great value in being able to work and live in the one location.

Cedar Woods are working on several initiatives for the town centre such as a 50-room hotel (currently in planning/expression of interest phase to secure an operator), in addition to a strata office building (subject to approval). Demand is expected to be strong for the strata offices, filling a gap in the market for quality office spaces currently only offered in the CBD, Docklands and Southbank.

Blackburne notes that Melbourne's west can no longer be considered strictly blue collar, with an increasingly highly educated workforce working and living in the west. 46.5 per cent of adult residents within Williams Landing and Point Cook hold a university qualification, compared to 36.9 per cent of the overall Greater Melbourne region.

Economic research to investigate Williams Landing’s employment potential by Macroplan Dimasi found there is potential for 29,000 white-collar jobs to be created in Melbourne's west by 2031 under a low growth scenario. Of these jobs, it is estimated that Williams Landing will accommodate approximately 10,000 of those. Under a high growth scenario 60,000 white-collar jobs will be created under that same timeframe, with nearly 21,000 being located in Williams Landing – a major employment cluster by any means of the definition – and one which Cedar Woods has the capital and vision to deliver.

Blackburne points out that the planning controls for the site exclude height limits, which means the area can provide buildings as tall as the market demands as it evolves. Part of this sees the delivery of transitional buildings of a lower-density for the short to medium term, with Cedar Woods retaining ownership, before the development of higher density outcomes is justified.

Cedar Woods initial development pipeline will see Williams Landing mature over the next 10 to 15 years with any redevelopment of so-called 'transitional properties' to occur thereafter.
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Williams Landing and the boost to white-collar employment in the west

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With 2016 now well underway and several projects gearing up for construction or gathering pace, it's an opportune time for another update on the progress of Apartments.com.au's CBD model. Previously the focus has been on the CBD North area, however with big projects such as Australia 108 in full swing and the approval of Kavanagh Park, it seemed like the next area worth looking at was Southbank.

As this is an ongoing process there are still buildings still to be added, both existing and future, but it's interesting to see what's in store for Southbank over the course of the next five or so years.

<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/southbank_aerial.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Southbank aerial of the central cluster."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/southbank_aerial.png?itok=9dTLUtgo" title="Southbank aerial of the central cluster." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Southbank aerial of the central cluster.</figcaption></figure>The elevation below shows (some are not visible) the projects currently under construction on Southbank.

<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/southbank_uc_elevation.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Southbank under construction."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="203" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/southbank_uc_elevation.png?itok=m8Au0yyd" title="Southbank under construction." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Southbank under construction.</figcaption></figure>Major towers currently under construction include:

<ul>
<li>Australia 108</li>
	<li>1-11 Balston Street</li>
	<li>Opus Tower (nearing completion)</li>
	<li>2 Riverside Quay</li>
	<li>Shadow Play</li>
	<li>Marco Apartments</li>
	<li>Platinum Tower</li>
</ul>
When the approved projects (blue) are added into the mix the change in Southbank's skyline and density is significant with Kavanagh Park alone set to add six towers and 2,610 dwellings to the area.

Other sizeable developments include 38 Freshwater Place at 274 metres, 158 City Road, Elysium (240 metres) and Central Equity's tallest approved project to date: Southbank Place at 165 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/southbank_proposals_elevation.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Southbank approvals (blue) and under construction (green)."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="203" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/southbank_proposals_elevation.png?itok=ONcUZOXG" title="Southbank approvals (blue) and under construction (green)." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Southbank approvals (blue) and under construction (green).</figcaption></figure>And lastly proposed developments are included, adding further variety to the skyline silhouette; a far cry from the City of Melbourne's desire for a blanket height in Southbank of 100 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/southbank_all_in_elevation_.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Southbank all in."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="203" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/southbank_all_in_elevation_.png?itok=lR3i9DO_" title="Southbank all in." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Southbank all in.</figcaption></figure>Still missing from the above images are <a href="http://www.wilkinsoneyre.com/">Wilkinson Eyre</a>'s 317 metre Crown Plaza at 1 Queensbridge Street, which will slot straight in taking centre stage in the Southbank model. This will occur once Apartments.com.au has the full details on the development.

Additionally a dual tower scheme for 87-105 City Road, designed by Fender Katasalidis Architects is also anticipated to be included soon as will the the revamped 334-344 City Road.

<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/southbank_from_fss.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Southbank from Flinders Street Station."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="261" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/southbank_from_fss.png?itok=bak2-zBS" title="Southbank from Flinders Street Station." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Southbank from Flinders Street Station.</figcaption></figure>
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Southbank's surge continues: another CBD model update

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<a href="http://www.brunswickgroup.com.au">Brunswick Group</a> has partnered with the Eighth Day Baptist Community to revitalise a former service station site in King St, West Melbourne. The new development called Hawke + King is located on an elevated island site bound by a leafy park at the juncture of Hawke, King and Curzon Streets.

Designed by <a href="http://sixdegrees.com.au/">Six Degrees Architects</a>, the project features a community hall, 74 apartments, a convenience store and basement parking. Brunswick Group and Six Degrees have previously worked together to deliver the award-winning Heller Street Park &amp; Residences in Brunswick. The Eighth Day Baptist Community currently occupy a manse building on the site.

With a walkability score of 98, West Melbourne provides a vibrant community backdrop within easy walking distance to popular cafes, restaurants, eclectic shops, gourmet providores and the Queen Victoria Market. The development seeks to be an innovative, interesting and empathetic residential development via a range of initiatives such as good sustainability credentials and building a sense of community.

Urban.com.au sat down with Six Degrees Director James Legge, and Brunswick Group Directors Paul Bell and Marcus Lyon to gain an insight into the design and planning rationale behind Hawke + King.

<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/151106_-_king_st_tomorrow_agency_-_south_building_lores.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hawke + King, exterior view. Image courtesy of The Brunswick 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/151106_-_king_st_tomorrow_agency_-_south_building_lores.jpg?itok=wQ6iJnTK" title="Hawke + King, exterior view. Image courtesy of The Brunswick Group." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hawke + King, exterior view. Image courtesy of The Brunswick Group.</figcaption></figure>According to Legge, the EDBC wanted to develop the site in an appropriate manner, ensuring it was not overdeveloped. They sought a development partner whose vision for the site aligned strongly with their own and wanted the development to be based on good principles of sustainability: environmental, social and practical, because apartment living is not just about a building, it’s about amenity, long term livability, and a collection of people gathered in a place designed for an enjoyable lifestyle.

It’s about a thoughtful and empathetic way of life, empathetic to the individual who desires space and privacy, but with an understanding of the needs of families, as well as the community.

Six Degrees are passionate about these principles and have built their practice on the notion of growing communities and supporting sustainability and livability. The overall premise of practical sustainability is not about trying to be a commune, but endeavouring to engender a feeling of community through the provision of private space, public space and some spaces in between.

Six Degrees have investigated how people like to occupy space to create different pockets and environments for different groups.

<blockquote>
Brunswick Group was established with a vision to create distinctive property projects in order to set ourselves apart in a highly competitive market. Distinctiveness of product is also an important consideration for residential buyers, due to the market dynamics of supply and demand and the benefit of owning a scarce asset.

Hawke + King is a stunningly unique project, combining a superb location with Six Degrees' distinctive design aesthetic and acute attention to detail, along with a built form that supports long term livability, a sense of community and occupant wellbeing.
<cite>Paul Bell, Director, The Brunswick Group</cite>
</blockquote>

The design team investigated a number of development scenarios and various alternatives for how the site might be developed before settling on a ‘campus-style approach’ according to Legge. The form and articulation of the development was derived via a strategy of breaking the massing down into a series of buildings so it didn’t present as one large mass.

At ground level - the pedestrian environment - a much higher degree of articulation has been provided. This has been achieved through the materiality: employing a variety of much more expressive materials, which are textured and have a tactile quality to them.

The pedestrian experience becomes more like the experience of walking down a side street, with brick textures and steel work, as opposed to a completely glazed frontage. Six Degrees' work tends to put a big emphasis on the importance of street activation and engagement with the surrounding landscape, both soft and hardscape.

Additionally it was critical that access through the site was retained, while maintaining the internal communal space. By breaking the development down into a series of buildings it also allowed the design team to provide open exposed walkways to the interior of the site. “You can’t create community but what you can do is facilitate and encourage it” says Legge.

The raised site provides many apartments with good aspects in all directions, maximising the views afforded towards the Melbourne CBD and beyond. All apartments are dual fronted with a private courtyard or balcony to the external face of the building and substantial floor to ceiling windows which allow for an abundance of natural light and fresh airflow throughout.

Additionally internal walkways have been placed as external communal walkways which provide occupiable space rather than just being a dual loaded corridor. These are inviting landscaped areas where residents can sit, rest and socialise, as well as providing every apartment with a dual aspect with natural light and ventilation at both ends.

These create public and semi-private spaces for residences to use, a reinterpretation of the old “porch front.”

<blockquote>
The community aspects of Hawke + King are unique; of course we can only encourage and facilitate community, but the outdoor corridors, internal courtyards, personal courtyards and rooftop garden are all hugely habitable spaces for residents to relax in and enjoy. Alternatively solitude is also an option on private balconies.
<cite>James Legge, Principal Architect, Six Degrees</cite>
</blockquote>

<ul></ul>
Hawke + King's 74 apartments are distributed amongst four buildings which vary in height from between 3 and 6 levels, These surround an attractive 300sqm internal centrally located courtyard which punctuates the internal space of the building and allows residents to commune with nature.

Apartments either open out or overlook the courtyard, providing passive surveillance to a space that is not quite public but rather a quasi-public space drawing on similar concepts at Heller Street. The apartments are above standard sizes and the various typologies have been designed to appeal to all demographics. These are sized from:

<ul>
<li>21 x One bedroom starting from 55 SQM</li>
	<li>41 x Two bedrooms starting from 70 SQM</li>
	<li>12 x Three bedrooms starting from 100 SQM</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/151106_-_king_st_tomorrow_agency_-_interior_-_lo_res.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Typical apartment interior. Image courtesy of The Brunswick Group."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="459" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/151106_-_king_st_tomorrow_agency_-_interior_-_lo_res.jpg?itok=7hwo4dM9" title="Typical apartment interior. Image courtesy of The Brunswick Group." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Typical apartment interior. Image courtesy of The Brunswick Group.</figcaption></figure>Hawke + King features a range of recycled materials and warehouse inspired finishes, including:

<ul>
<li>Recycled bricks</li>
	<li>Recycled timber floor boards</li>
	<li>Exposed concrete ceilings</li>
</ul>
Together with a number of other sustainability initiatives listed below these provide Hawke + King with one of the highest energy ratings of any apartment building in Melbourne (7.3 stars).

<ul>
<li>Bicycle racks</li>
	<li>Composting system</li>
	<li>Rain Water collection</li>
	<li>A green roof top designed to attract wildlife</li>
	<li>A communal roof deck complete with veggie garden</li>
	<li>Fresh air ­ reticulation through dual aspect front and back doors and high ceiling fans</li>
	<li>Courtyards with private open space</li>
	<li>Courtyards with semi open space</li>
	<li>Walkway labyrinth as opposed to internal corridors</li>
</ul>
Early demand has seen almost 30% of the building reserved, all to local buyers, mostly owner occupiers.

<blockquote>
The Hawke + King project is entirely unique in a market that has an overabundance of options. The site itself is entirely unique, being an island essentially on the cusp of trendy Errol Street and just moments from the CBD and Vic market.

The internal layouts are efficient and sizes are generous. When coupled with the 2.9m high ceilings, these apartments will seem dramatically more spacious than others in the inner north. Internal finishes are bold yet simple and timeless. Many promise warehouse style living but rarely is it delivered like it is here at Hawke + King.
<cite>Daniel Cashen, Director, Knight Frank</cite>
</blockquote>

Hawke + King is scheduled to begin formal marketing and construction during 2016.
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Six Degrees of separation: Hawke + King

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In the age of High Lines, Low Lines and everything in between, cities across the world are investigating ways in which to improve underutilised or abandoned infrastructure and the spaces associated with them. One such project is <a href="http://www.undergardiner.com/">Under Gardiner</a> in Toronto which seeks to give back to the city by turning the underutilised space beneath the Gardiner Expressway into a long park that would reconnect the neighbourhoods below it.

Transforming more than four hectares of land beneath the elevated portion of Toronto’s Gardiner Expressway into a series of public spaces, a 1.75-kilometre multi-use trail and 500m connection to Exhibition GO Station will also be included. By reclaiming this forgotten space Under Gardiner will create a series of rooms formed by the spaces between columns, reimagining the area beneath the expressway as a place for people.

<blockquote>
As cities densify, we begin to view lost or underutilized spaces in new ways. This proposal is a visionary approach to celebrating and inhabiting a spectacular, dramatic space, stitching together a series of existing areas to provide a front door to Fort York, one of the Toronto's most significant historical resources.
<cite>Jennifer Keesmaat, City of Toronto Chief Planner</cite>
</blockquote>

The project is based on a transformative framework design by urban designer Ken Greenberg plus Marc Ryan and Adam Nicklin of landscape architecture firm Public Works. The vision for the project includes the continuous multi-use trail, a bridge over Fort York Boulevard for pedestrians and cyclists, a grand staircase at Strachan that will double as seating for an urban theatre and a series of flexible, year-round performance and programming spaces that can be used by the community.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/undergardiner_-_backgrounder_-_final.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aerial of Under Gardiner Master Plan. Image courtesy of PUBLIC WORKS"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/undergardiner_-_backgrounder_-_final.jpg?itok=77n0vFKb" title="Aerial of Under Gardiner Master Plan. Image courtesy of PUBLIC WORKS" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Aerial of Under Gardiner Master Plan. Image courtesy of PUBLIC WORKS</figcaption></figure>Each of the public "rooms" formed by the highway will become part of a network of public spaces for everything from farmers markets and concert venues, to summer camp. The designers will work with residents to decide how to use each part of the park with a trail will connect each of the spaces and reconnect a network of bike paths across the rest of the city.

<blockquote>
This is a project that cuts through about seven different neighborhoods that are all in a way fragmented. They don't see themselves as unified in any way.
<cite>Marc Ryan, co-founder of PUBLIC WORKS</cite>
</blockquote>

What is most interesting about this project is the fact that while the Gardiner Expressway currently acts as a barrier severing connections between neighbourhoods it also has the potential to provide the solution by re-stitching the city.

<h2>How might such a project like Under Gardiner be of relevance here in Melbourne?</h2>

With the City of Melbourne advancing plans for City Road, Southbank Boulevard and Dodds St as part of a series of initiatives identified for development within the <a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/AboutMelbourne/ProjectsandInitiatives/Southbank2010/Documents/Southbank_Structure_Plan_updated_30Nov2011.pdf">Southbank Structure Plan 2010 </a>document, the next cab off the rank in terms of improvement and enhancement of the public realm within Southbank should be the Westgate Freeway Undercroft.

An opportunity exists to connect Southbank not just with itself but with the Fishermans Bend Urban Renewal 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/m1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Westgate Freeway aerial. Image courtesy of Nearmap."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="294" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/m1.jpg?itok=-94RvQRS" title="Westgate Freeway aerial. Image courtesy of Nearmap." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Westgate Freeway aerial. Image courtesy of Nearmap.</figcaption></figure>Southbank suffers from a lack of accessible and high quality public open space: there is currently 4,800m2 of green open space and as Southbank’s resident and worker population grows, addressing this issue becomes more and more critical. In addition to this there is currently a scarcity of pedestrian and cyclist routes through Southbank that are attractive, continuous, safe and of high amenity.

It's worth noting the Southbank Plan seeks to "establish new parks within the area and deliver a finer grain of attractive public gathering spaces."

The approach to the CityLink Tunnels was also identified as contributing to the disparate nature of Southbank. The Southbank Plan proposes to stitch together the northern and southern fragmented ‘halves’ of Southbank by decking over the void with new development to create a connected and continuous mixed use area which provides the opportunity for new public open space.

<blockquote>
Delivering new public open spaces of any significant size in this area is difficult and would involve the conversion of private, developable land for public, noncommercial use with an associated high acquisition cost. The exception includes the M1 undercroft which is an opportunity to provide a linear park in the western end of Southbank.

The CityLink Deck precinct offers a new opportunity to provide a new large public park within this development site. The location of the Arts Activity Precinct at the intersection of the new Sturt Street spine and Southbank Boulevard emphasises the imperative to deliver the linear parkland within Southbank Boulevard.
<cite>Southbank Structure Plan 2010</cite>
</blockquote>

While the CityLink deck could be considered a much longer term proposition, it would also make sense to act as the 'exclamation mark' or termination node for a linear park and walking/cycling network as part of a revitalised M1 Undercroft. As the extract above points out, acquisition of private land comes with a significant cost and this was recently highlighted with the <a href="http://www.skynews.com.au/news/local/melbourne/2015/11/25/-19m-spent-on-land-for-vic-playground">State Goverment paying $19m</a> for a development site on Buckhurst Street within the Montague precinct of Fishermans Bend to allow for the provision of a future park for the precinct.

Developer contributions would go some way to helping deliver the vision for an improved, accessible and safe M1 Undercroft with the subsequent benefits and opportunities provided being immense. A good indicator will be the Kingsway Undercroft works associated with the City Road masterplan; this should be used as a case study to investigate and test the best uses and subsequently provide direction for any potential M1 undercroft project.

Hopefully Southbank won't have to wait too much longer for meaningful and usable open space. In the meantime I look forward to seeing Under Gardiner develop over the next few years with an eye toward what it could show Melbourne in the process.

<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/3053787-slide-s-11-the-forgotten-space-under-a-toronto-highway.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Under Gardiner proposed spaces. Image courtesy of PUBLIC WORKS"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="267" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/3053787-slide-s-11-the-forgotten-space-under-a-toronto-highway.jpg?itok=fKz9WgeV" title="Under Gardiner proposed spaces. Image courtesy of PUBLIC WORKS" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Under Gardiner proposed spaces. Image courtesy of PUBLIC WORKS</figcaption></figure>
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Taking a cue from Toronto to create the Southbank M1 Undercroft

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Founded in 2002, <a href="http://www.techne.com.au/">Technè Architecture + Interior Design</a> is a practice that has built an impressive portfolio across a broad section of project types. Although they have completed projects across hospitality, single and multi-residential, commercial, automotive and retail, they are probably best known for their work in hospitality on projects such as The Prahran Hotel, The Bridge Hotel, Terminus and Jimmy Grants.

The name Technè comes from the ancient Greek word which means "to make, poetically" and is at the heart of what the practice strives to achieve and what it stands for.

Urban.com.au recently caught up with Technè Directors Nick Travers and Justin Northrop in their Hardware Lane offices to find out a bit more about the burgeoning practice's beginnings and their aspirations for the future.

<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/prahran_hotel_530.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Prahran Hotel exterior and interior. Image courtesy of Technè. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="261" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/prahran_hotel_530.jpg?itok=i2uPTDcZ" title="Prahran Hotel exterior and interior. Image courtesy of Technè. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Prahran Hotel exterior and interior.</figcaption></figure>Travers and Northrop have worked together for nearly 20 years. First meeting during 1998 as fresh-faced architectural graduates in the design department of a large commercial architectural practice, their day-to-day work on major projects evolved into a partnership of weekend work that ultimately led to the creation of Atelier Technè.

The office currently employs a staff of 27 including architects, interior designers, graduates and students. According to Northrop the size of the current team provides a good opportunity to consolidate their skills and focus on what they're currently doing. The duo doesn’t hold ambitions of growing the office into a big practice; rather they are content to see where opportunities and the collective capabilities of the team might take them.

Having grown organically over the years, Technè 's origins as a partnership saw them sublet space with <a href="http://sixdegrees.com.au/">Six Degrees</a> in West Melbourne. The catalyst project for the pair was The Deanery bar and restaurant, kicking off their hospitality work in the process.

Their co-location with Six Degrees in their infancy was a good move according to Travers; personally not keen on working out of the corner of his apartment, he wanted to feel the sense of collegiality that Six Degrees offered. Even though they were working on their own projects Travers and Northrop both felt like they were a part of something bigger. The sublet also gave the duo access to a great resource with a wealth of knowledge and experience that could be drawn on.

<blockquote>
The experience we had at that time was primarily large-scale concept work. We went from this to running a small studio so we couldn’t have been more ill-prepared [laughs] in terms of our on-the-job training.

This is another reason why it was useful working in the same space as Six Degrees, we were able to reach out to them for advice when we needed it.
<cite>Justin Northrop</cite>
</blockquote>

Beyond that point Technè has experienced steady growth. The studio was able to land a large commercial client Porsche within the first five years of their business, which signalled a change for the practice.

The relationship with Porsche came about initially through Travers’ passion for cars. Porsche were considering options for decanting their leased warehouse space at Tullamarine and subsequently purchasing a property to develop a warehouse for their parts distribution nationally. This required a business case to be put forward to their management in Germany.

Porsche came to Technè asking if they could build a model of their current capacity vs their future needs and how the two didn't align. The model was presented in Germany and they received sign off to begin looking at acquiring a site to build what was essentially a 3,000sqm shed.

Technè assisted with scoping and securing of the site, feasibility studies and eventually designed and documented the facility. Not long after, Porsche asked Technè to work on the refurbishment of Porsche Centre Melbourne on Victoria Parade leading to the practice becoming the national representatives for the design of Porsche dealerships throughout the country.

<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/techne_porschedoncaster_0099_full.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Porche Doncaster. Image courtesy of Technè."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/techne_porschedoncaster_0099_full.jpg?itok=2I-BY631" title="Porche Doncaster. Image courtesy of Technè." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Porche Doncaster.</figcaption></figure>When the global financial crisis hit, the office had about half the staff they currently employ. Fortunately, due to the diversity of projects they were involved with at the time they were able to navigate through what was a tough period for many other practices. Even though Porsche presents as a blue chip client Travers explains Technè has never relied on one particular type of project or one big return client, instead holding a broad list of clients.

<blockquote>
It's been a good process, having grown organically. Even our own personal growth and improvement in our capabilities and our confidence is a big part of it. The capacity to employ good people is important - we're starting to employ people that can do a better job than we can [laughs].

We’re now hiring more senior people. We have a really good mix of experience in the studio – it’s very balanced.
<cite>Nick Travers</cite>
</blockquote>

Northrop adds in that the way the office operates now, the directors are able to let senior team members take the lead on projects. The growing experience and expertise in the team has provided Technè with the ability and confidence to seek out opportunities for other types of projects. The studio has established a particular focus on the expansion into workplace, hotels, retail and multi-residential.

<blockquote>
It's interesting how small jobs, a singular sketch or a model can lead to bigger projects. It's a reminder of why it's foolish to turn away jobs if they’re small – there’s always potential behind them.

We've always tried to look after those jobs because you never know what they might lead to.
<cite>Justin Northrop</cite>
</blockquote>

According to Travers, being responsive when clients are relying on them to make big decisions is critical to building trust and a strong client relationship.

Travers cites their pub work as some of his most enjoyable projects. He sees the collaborative process and effort required as part of the reason the outcomes are so special and unique. The fact that unlike other projects the pubs can be enjoyed by the design team socially presents a unique opportunity to see first hand how people are making use of the spaces they have designed.

Places such as The Prahran Hotel and Terminus are "fun places" says Northrop and that comes from the team's enjoyment working on them.

Technè currently has a number of projects on the drawing board including a boutique hotel, the redevelopment of a historic pub in Melbourne’s CBD, the riverfront precinct at the Alphington Paper Mill site. Also upcoming is a restaurant, bar and boutique brewery within the bluestone walls of the heritage-listed former Pentridge laundry as part of <a href="http://www.futureestate.com.au/">Future Estate's</a> development.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image37_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A selection of Technè projects."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="334" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image37_4.jpg?itok=UTWXC4k0" title="A selection of Technè projects." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A selection of Technè projects.</figcaption></figure>
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Getting to know Technè: profiling the dynamic design practice

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Victoria's leading boutique architecture practices have been praised for their ingenuity and contribution to the design community at this year’s eighth <a href="http://www.architeam.net.au/">ArchiTeam</a> Awards which saw 83 entries of "unparalled" standard featured across six categories.

Adaptive reuse and sustainability were key themes explored as Victoria’s small, medium and emerging practices came together last night at the No Vacancy Gallery, QV Centre to celebrate the achievements of their peers.  Projects will be on public exhibition until 6th December.

The awards continue to set new benchmarks, with 2015 attracting the greatest number of entrants since its inception in 2008.

<blockquote>
2015 marks an exciting year for the ArchiTeam awards, the projects we have seen this year are a testament to the success of boutique architecture practices and the significant growth experienced in this sector as clients start to really recognise the immense value in engaging smaller or independent practices.
<cite>Zoe Geyer, ArchiTeam Awards Director.</cite>
</blockquote>

The award recipients represent a mixture of commercial, residential, sustainability and community projects, with residential alterations and additions gaining exposure in a new category.  The judging panel for this year's awards comprised Founding Director of Breathe Architecture, Jeremy McLeod, Director of Kennedy Nolan, Rachel Nolan and Director of HAW, Stuart Harrison.

The full list of winner's can be viewed below, along with a brief project description as provided by the judging panel:

<h2>ArchiTeam Award/Residential (New) Award WINNER:</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/ari_apartments.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ari Apartments - OLA Studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ari_apartments.jpg?itok=X7D7-Nb5" title="Ari Apartments - OLA Studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ari Apartments - OLA Studio</figcaption></figure>Ari Apartments by OLA Studio –

An exemplary urban design outcome, Ari Apartments exemplify quality. Located on in Hawthorn East this collection of spacious apartments sets the tone for inner-city living with premium internal amenity, warm interiors and a multitasking timber screen to the façade. The insertion of an external brick paved laneway provides a perfect transition from public to private space, inviting interaction at a pedestrian level and fostering ties to the community.

Residential (New) Award COMMENDATION: 

Bridge House by Delia Teschendorff

<h2>Sustainability Award WINNER:</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/ngv_fold_theory.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="NGV Fold Theory - Tobias Horrocks"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ngv_fold_theory.jpg?itok=GjsljofL" title="NGV Fold Theory - Tobias Horrocks" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>NGV Art Fair - Fold Theory</figcaption></figure>NGV Art Fair by Fold Theory – 
Clever in its use of recyclable materials, this project proved sustainability need not come at the expense of aesthetics and could be integrated into the design from inception to delivery. Holistic in its approach, the elegant installation saw cardboard transformed into an ephemeral exhibition space to create a fit-out that was true to brief, low-cost and functional.

Sustainability Award COMMENDATIONS: 
Active Travel Zone at The Alfred by Robert Nichol &amp; Sons 
Wohnen Morgen by Steffen Welsch

<h2>Community Award WINNER:</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/church_st_john.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Church St John - tessellate"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/church_st_john.jpg?itok=VNvaljkA" title="Church St John - tessellate" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Church St John - tessellate</figcaption></figure>Church St Johns by Tessellate – 
Constructed off-site, this project pushes the limits of prefabrication with its skilful composition and articulation. The well-scaled addition complements the original Highton structure whilst resisting the temptation of stereotypical church design.

Community Award COMMENDATIONS: 
Active Travel Zone at The Alfred by Robert Nichol &amp; Sons 
NGV Art Fair by Fold Theory

<h2>Commercial Award WINNER:</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/harryhall3-642x380.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Harry Hall Restaurant and Wine Bar - Davidov Partners Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/harryhall3-642x380.png?itok=uB-5yZYg" title="Harry Hall Restaurant and Wine Bar - Davidov Partners Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Harry Hall Restaurant and Wine Bar - Davidov Partners Architects</figcaption></figure>Harry Hall – Restaurant and Wine Bar by Davidov Partners Architects 
Nestled in a Glenferrie Road shopfront, Harry Hall Restaurant &amp; Wine Bar is the contemporary enoteca juxtaposing old and new to deliver an atmospheric space that seamlessly transitions from day to night. Striped back and honest, the venue favours recycled brick, blonde wood and concealed lighting to communicate an unpretentious, welcoming vibe.

Commercial Award COMMENDATIONS: 
Birkenstock HQ by Melbourne Design Studios 
Astra Lodge by Grant Amon Architects

<h2>Unbuilt Award WINNER:</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/nervegna_reed.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Power Street Loop Competition / Kata Tjunta Freeway Ecological System - Nervegna Reed"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nervegna_reed.jpg?itok=rG1jSSdK" title="Power Street Loop Competition / Kata Tjunta Freeway Ecological System - Nervegna Reed" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Power Street Loop Competition / Kata Tjunta Freeway Ecological System - Nervegna Reed</figcaption></figure>Power Street Loop Competition / Kata Tjunta Freeway Ecological System by Nervegna Reed

This evocative form sits somewhere between building, sculpture, environmental machine and urban landmark. Is it inverted terrain? Is it a vessel? What is its role? It is these questions that make this proposal such an exciting and engaging proposition for what is a particularly exposed and uneventful inner city site.

Unbuilt Award COMMENDATION: 
Melville Road, Brunswick West by Designpractice Architects 
Fitzroy II by Claire Scorpo Architects

<h2>Residential (Alterations and Additions) Award JOINT WINNERS:</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/thornbury1-642x380.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Thornbury by Claire Scorpo Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/thornbury1-642x380.jpg?itok=4INx0JH9" title="Thornbury by Claire Scorpo Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Thornbury by Claire Scorpo Architects</figcaption></figure>Thornbury by Claire Scorpo Architects 
Fabricated offsite, this extension features a simple skeleton frame oriented to allow abundant northern light into the south facing block. Working with budget and time constraints, the addition represents a seamless continuation of the existing spaces with three individually programmed courtyard spaces, a library link and a reading nook crafted in pale timber.

<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_portal.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Portal by Architecture Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_portal.jpg?itok=RwReyf34" title="The Portal by Architecture Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Portal by Architecture Architecture</figcaption></figure>The Portal by Architecture Architecture 
A Californian Bungalow in Brunswick West, this residence grew to encompass sun-drenched living spaces and room to live and play freely. Cleverly set-back from the rear of the house, the extension opens up to the northern aspect and draws upon passive solar design principals to achieve environmental efficiency.

Residential (Alterations and Additions) Award COMMENDATIONS: 
Theresa St Residence by Sonelo Design Studio 
Brunswick Residence by Project 12 Architecture 
Fitzroy I by Caire Scorpo Architects
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2015 ArchiTeam winners announced

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It's not easy trying to implement the ideals of a ground-breaking research project into an upcoming apartment development, but that's what St Kilda-based property developer Neometro have endeavoured to achieve with their upcoming project at Jewell Station.

The report in question is <a href="https://heartfoundation.org.au/images/uploads/publications/Increasing-density-in-Australia-Evidence-Review-2012-trevor.pdf">Increasing density in Australia: maximising the health benefits and minimising harm</a>, a 2012 evidence-based report commissioned by National Heart Foundation of Australia. Neometro prior to the commencement of Jewell Station became aware of the report which investigated the health impacts of medium-high density living.

The investigation revealed many truths about the flow-on effects of increased density in Australian housing. Some of which Neometro explains provides great opportunities for the wider property development industry to further enhance the product they offer for sale. The report found that higher-density housing, when carefully considered, has the potential to improve the physical and mental health of residents, with great flow-on benefits to the community and the environment.

Urban.com.au recently spoke with Neometro's Design Director Jeff Provan and Director James Tutton on some of the potential for design to have a positive influence on the well being of those who reside in their projects, particularly in relation to the Jewell Station 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/neometro.jpeg" rel="gallery-all" title="Neometro's Design Director Jeff Provan and Director James Tutton."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="233" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/neometro.jpeg?itok=E1ZbZICo" title="Neometro's Design Director Jeff Provan and Director James Tutton." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Neometro's Design Director Jeff Provan and Director James Tutton.</figcaption></figure>Urban.com.au: How have Neometro endeavoured to implement the ideals from the study?

James Tutton: The largest elements from the National Heart Foundation study which are pertinent to Jewel Station specifically, relate to the fact that clearly having community infrastructure has a positive impact on the physical and emotional well being of people. The community infrastructure however needs to be something that people can either opt into or opt out of.

What we have done at Jewel Station is not create a situation where people have to share laundries or are forced into that co-habitation, but rather they can choose to use community gardens, they can choose to use outdoor leisure spaces etc. and that has a major impact on people's well being.

Another simple, practical example is lighting and if you look at what we're doing from a lighting perspective has an impact on security and security in turn, based on that research has an impact upon people feeling secure within a building, so that's something that we have proactively addressed in the design.

Walkability is obviously a major issue and I wouldn't say that we've hardwired that into the project, but rather the actual site selection process has resulted in something which has immediate proximity to parks. There's park space immediately opposite the development and we have an amount of money which will be going towards the renewal of that park.

Additionally the proximity to retail, education and transport is very strong; we're on the doorstep of Melbourne University, we've got a major retail strip, a bike path, rail line and tram line all within 150 metres of the site. They're all factors which contribute to physical and mental well being in terms of people's living environment.

Jeff Provan: One thing I'll add is in our brief the interior of the apartments and common areas is absolutely crucial to well being and how residents feel. What we're trying to do here with the brief is create that feel of coming in from that fairly harsh environment of railway line, industrial, concrete, asphalt etc. so when you come into your apartment, the idea is that you want to create a calming effect and that's done by various techniques.

Without getting into the nitty gritty, it's a little bit esoteric and a little hard to put your finger on it but apartments are all sort of trying to work with smaller spaces so what you have to do is create a situation that has this light and airy feel about it; the key is to create a calming environment.

The study doesn't quite go into this but you're looking at a building that requires a minimal amount of maintenance so you don't want to be burdening people with the high cost of maintaining an apartment which all comes back to how you design it.

<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/jewel_station.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Jewel Station development. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="402" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jewel_station.jpg?itok=4nhiaWYo" title="Jewel Station development. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Jewel Station development.</figcaption></figure>UM: Does/will the report have an impact on your strategy behind site acquisition: developing projects within areas with a strong community focus and access to recreational areas?

JT: In the current market it's hard enough to buy sites but there are a couple of stand out points from the study in terms of, for example, main roads with high levels of pollution which can obviously be problematic to people's health and in turn means we would avoid them. That's not to say that there aren't ways of mitigating issues.

I guess it's not a position driven by the report per se, but some of the things you may have seen come from the report and the good design guidelines are factors which Neometro have been focusing on for 25 years; they're just common sense from a design and well being perspective.

JP: And I think the reality now is if you're working on an inner city site, generally it's going to be close to public transport so that's sort of a given and I think what James touched on before is we'd rather be doing a building on a railway line even though the rail noise might have a perception of being worse than it is.

Jewel is obviously on a train line so there's a bit of noise but you can mitigate it through double glazing so residents can sleep. If they want to open their door they're only going to hear noise say every half hour rather than the constant noise of a freeway, so they can use their facilities in the manner in which they were designed for.

UM: What are your thoughts on advocating developer contributions to go towards community amenities where sites are restricted in providing an appropriate level of onsite amenity?

JT: Developers do already make that contribution in the form of open space however one of the challenges is the fact that there's not necessarily transparency in the way that the money is used and whether it is directly related to a specific area.

In terms of Jewel Station we've been incredibly fortunate whereby we're doing this development and VicTrack are covering the cost of the public realm. To an extent we're getting a bit of a free kick because it's a partnership in terms of the overall design and development of the precinct.

JP: In terms of what the building does for the community, first and foremost it has to get the architecture and street activation right; how it affects the outside community and how the community see and respect the building. Something not many people get right is the street activation and it's sometimes difficult to do because it can get value managed out.

The crucial aspect for the developer is to make sure that it does work within the urban landscape in terms of how friendly it is, how approachable the building is, what are the functions that are going to go into the building. As James touched on, in projects like Jewel station we're not going to add pools or cinemas, we have to do things that benefit the individual in the building. If you get the community right within the building that will really reciprocate with the outside community.

UM: Thank you for your time gentlemen.
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High density happiness with Neometro's James Tutton and Jeff Provan

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

Joel Robinson

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

<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.

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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>

Laurence Dragomir

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