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Last week saw the first in hopefully many more Melbourne Urban Design Meetups (MUDM). The focus of the night was a presentation by City of Melbourne's Yvonne Lynch who leads the Urban Ecology and Urban Forest Team at the City of Melbourne.

<blockquote>
The team focus is ecosystem led adaptation for climate resilience and citizen engagement through transparency and participation. She has developed and led some of the most progressive climate change policies and initiatives for the city including the implementation of the Climate Change Adaptation Strategy, the strategic development of the 1200 Buildings Program, securing a legislative amendment to initiate Australia’s first Environmental Upgrade Agreement, developing the Urban Forest Strategy and the Tree Protection Policy.

She has commissioned Melbourne’s first research on sea-level rise, white roofs, dendrochronology to assess the effects of climate impacts. These projects have received awards nationally from the United Nations Association of Australia, The Banksia Foundation and the National Climate Change Adaptation Research Centre and internationally from the C40 Cities Program.
</blockquote>

Organised by Charlie Woolford, Melbourne Urban Design Meetup is an opportunity for like-minded individuals interested in urban design, city design, sustainability an the built environment. There will be a series of regular meetups where individuals can come along and meet professionals from within the industry, enthusiasts and people with a general interest towards urban design.

The next MUDM event will feature a brief presentation from Charlie Woolford that explains what MUDM is, its aspirations, what people can expect and how they can get involved.

<h2>About the Urban Forest Strategy</h2>

<blockquote>
Melbourne’s tree population is vast – we have 70,000 council-owned trees, worth around $650 million. Trees are a defining part of Melbourne. We live in the world’s most liveable city and our parks, gardens, green spaces and tree-lined streets contribute enormously to this status.

But the trees are now under threat. More than a decade of drought, severe water restrictions and periods of extreme heat, combined with an ageing tree stock, have put our trees under immense stress and many are now in a state of accelerated decline.

As a result, we expect to lose 27 per cent of our current tree population in the next decade and 44 per cent in the next 20 years.

Combined with this loss, Melbourne’s urban forest is facing two significant future challenges: climate change and urban growth.
<cite>City of Melbourne</cite>
</blockquote>

The City of Melbourne’s Urban Forest Strategy seeks to manage this change and protect against future vulnerability by providing a robust strategic framework for the evolution and longevity of Melbourne's urban forest.

The strategy aims to:

<ul>
<li>adapt our city to climate change</li>
	<li>mitigate the urban heat island effect by bringing our inner-city temperatures down</li>
	<li>create healthier ecosystems</li>
	<li>become a water-sensitive city</li>
	<li>engage and involve the community</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/urban_forest_infographic.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Melbourne Urban Forest Infographic. © City of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="820" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/urban_forest_infographic.jpg?itok=3z_piCAI" title="Melbourne Urban Forest Infographic. © City of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Melbourne Urban Forest Infographic. © City of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>A great online resource tool that the City of Melbourne have developed is <a href="/news/urban-forest-visual">Urban Forest Visual</a> which features a map that allows users to track the Useful Life Expectancy (ULE) of each tree within the municipality while providing info on the specific species of tree as well as other useful facts and figures. You can even send the trees personalised emails, for those so inclined.

One of the key messages delivered by Yvonne Lynch that resonated with the audience was...

<h2>"A city within a forest, not a forest within a city"</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/city_within_a_forest.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A visualisation of the possible future ‘greening’ of Melbourne. © City of Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="638" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/city_within_a_forest.jpg?itok=_s7Rs4sT" title="A visualisation of the possible future ‘greening’ of Melbourne. © City of Melbourne" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A visualisation of the possible future ‘greening’ of Melbourne. © City of Melbourne</figcaption></figure>To stay up to date or connect with MUDM, you can follow them on <a href="https://twitter.com/mudm_au">Twitter</a> or on <a href="http://www.meetup.com/Melbourne-Urban-Design-Meetup/">their Meetup page</a>.

City of Melbourne's Urban Forest Strategy is available <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/Sustainability/UrbanForest/Documents/Urban_Forest_Strategy.pdf">from their website</a>.

Hope to see you at future MUDM events.
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Laurence Dragomir

Melbourne Urban Design Meetup #1: City of Melbourne's Urban Forest Strategy

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With the constant negative media focus on high-rise projects and the poor design of some apartments I thought it an opportune time to focus on a practice working at a smaller scale and with an impressive growing body of work: <a href="http://www.fieldworkprojects.com.au/">Fieldwork</a>.

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to meet with Fieldwork and <a href="http://assembleprojects.com.au/">Assemble</a> Directors Ben Keck and Quino Holland at their studio in Northcote, to discuss their ever expanding portfolio and design philosophies.

I was initially drawn to their work from an aesthetic point of view: the practice employs a diverse palette of materials turning their back on the painted precast panels prevalent in a large proportion of current developments around Melbourne. Instead they have a preference for warm timbers, brick, vegetation and light filled interiors. Particular care is given to the inhabitants of their projects with the provision of quality resident amenity a key driving factor in their work.

Fieldwork also doesn't shy away from a more modest scale of living, seeing it as an opportunity to live comfortably rather than a compromise on living quality. I have always been of the view that city and inner ring apartment sizes can be smaller so long as they are well-considered and afford their residents a high degree of amenity in the form of ample natural light and ventilation. Theses areas are generally well serviced by public transport, supermarkets, shopping strips full of cafes, bars, restaurants and other ancillary services.

<h2>Fieldwork</h2>

Established in 2013, Fieldwork has already been appointed to a number of significant projects including a 76-apartment, eleven level residential building in North Fitzroy, a 91-apartment seven level residential building in Brunswick, a nine level residential building in the CBD and various townhouse projects in Richmond, Preston, Armadale, Parkville, Brunswick East and Forest Hill.

For the practice design is about aspiration and practicality: an optimistic view in which things can be made better through design. Through creative yet systematic solutions, the built environment can be optimized for both functionality and enjoyment. Fieldwork believe in the value of good design and take great care in translating beauty and functionality into their projects.

The design process starts with sound definition and analysis of the relevant questions and ends when the optimal resolutions through space, form and shape.

<h2>Projects</h2>

<h3>243-247 Queens Pde, Clifton Hill</h3>

<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_fitzroy.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="243-247 Queens Pde, Clifton Hill © Fieldwork"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="619" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/north_fitzroy.jpg?itok=4g9THtUF" title="243-247 Queens Pde, Clifton Hill © Fieldwork" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>243-247 Queens Pde, Clifton Hill © Fieldwork</figcaption></figure>The design for a 76-apartment, eleven storey multi-residential complex takes the form of a ‘lozenge’ shaped building which maximises views and natural light into each unit. The building is designed to a very high ESD standard - 4 star green star - and has an above-average energy rating at 7 stars. Generous private and communal decking draws residents outdoors, while natural timber cladding and planters soften the facade. An awning-sheltered retail or hospitality space is provided at the ground level, encouraging extension of public activity onto the street.

<h3>Richmond Townhouses</h3>

<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/richmond_townhouses.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Corner Newry and Canterbury Streets, Richmond © Fieldwork"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="410" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/richmond_townhouses.jpg?itok=ud-9uhVW" title="Corner Newry and Canterbury Streets, Richmond © Fieldwork" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Corner Newry and Canterbury Streets, Richmond © Fieldwork</figcaption></figure>12 high-quality three and four-storey townhouses have been designed with a focus on natural amenity and inner-city green living. These walk-up townhouses feature roof terraces and views over the street, extending residents’ interactions with its outdoor environment and neighbourhood beyond. The design has a refined material palette of white brick, timber cladding, black steel and steel wire mesh screens to support the growth of vegetation over time.

<h3>Preston Townhouses</h3>

<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/preston_townhouses.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="397 Murray Road, Preston © Fieldwork"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="627" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/preston_townhouses.jpg?itok=-d7MGAnk" title="397 Murray Road, Preston © Fieldwork" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>397 Murray Road, Preston © Fieldwork</figcaption></figure>The proposed development consists of sixteen 2-level, 2 bedroom townhouses. The design rethinks the common approach of running a driveway down the length of the site, which typically results in a row of garage doors and almost one third of the site area being given over to cars. Instead, parking is placed below ground and accessed by a ramp. With this strategy, more space is freed up for use as a communal walkway and courtyard spaces.

The front setback from Murray Road is designed as a communal garden space with a BBQ, bench seating and open lawn area for the enjoyment of all residents.

<h3>Parkville Townhouses</h3>

<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/parkville_townhouses.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="11 St Georges Grove, Parkville © Fieldwork"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="623" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/parkville_townhouses.jpg?itok=61XyUQfb" title="11 St Georges Grove, Parkville © Fieldwork" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>11 St Georges Grove, Parkville © Fieldwork</figcaption></figure>This four townhouse development presents a highly site responsive design with a strong ESD focus, characterised by fundamental principles such as its strong emphasis on internal amenity, privacy, access to light and significant landscape planting. The site’s key natural asset, the neighbouring mature river red gum trees, have been echoed through the architecture both materially and spatially.

A visually sculptural form has been created to imbue a sense of individual identity to each townhouse, while articulating and dissolving the overall mass.

<h3>Railway Avenue Townhouses</h3>

This six townhouse development draws upon the architectural character and materiality of post-war multi-unit developments in the surrounding suburbs. Its prominent street frontage is activated by hit-and-miss brickwork, which not only provides screening to ground floor windows but also acts as a textured backdrop to street activity. At night, this becomes a patterned illuminated façade. The upper levels are screened from the western sun via operable timber shutters.

<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/railway_avenue.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="3-5 Railway Ave, Armadale © Fieldwork"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="619" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/railway_avenue.jpg?itok=LwjOrItQ" title="3-5 Railway Ave, Armadale © Fieldwork" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>3-5 Railway Ave, Armadale © Fieldwork</figcaption></figure><h2>Assemble + Assemble Papers</h2>

The Fieldwork directors are also the founding co-directors of Assemble, an architecture, design and property development company focused on small footprint projects. Assemble partners with developers to share and realise their vision for small footprint living. The company undertakes joint ventures with developers on projects which are co-branded and co-invested and for which Assemble provide architecture services, creative/marketing services and development management assistance.

<blockquote>
At Assemble, we believe that sustainability is as much about conducting our business with integrity and passion as it is about environmentally sustainable design. In addition to outlining what we stand for – our Assemble ‘brand pillars’ are below – we want to briefly share the context for our beliefs, the locally focused but globally engaged thinking that has sparked the foundation of Assemble.

Currently, Australian homes (houses and apartments) are the largest in the world. At an average of 214 square metres, they are 10% larger than the average 195 square metre McMansion in the United States and 56% larger than the average 137 square metre home in Denmark, the largest homes in Europe. While we’ve made significant inroads in our nation’s short history to embrace small footprint living, we still have a long way to go to embrace it fully like most countries have overseas.

We love our country and we love our city. So, it’s part of our personal brief to have a positive impact on the urban, architectural and cultural fabric of both. As a result of this commitment, we seek to refocus the ‘Australian dream’ towards small footprint housing.
<cite>Assemble website</cite>
</blockquote>

In the spirit of fostering the culture of living closer together, Assemble also publishes Assemble Papers, an online publication for small footprint living, exploring culture, art, design, architecture, urbanism the environment and financial affairs. Over time a number <a href="http://assemblepapers.com.au/">Assemble Papers</a> articles will appear on Apartments.com.au across a range of topics from micro apartments to the apartment guideline debate. It's fair to say that the future aspirations of Apartments.com.au aren't too dissimilar to the ongoing work of both Fieldwork and Assemble.
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Up-and-comers: Fieldwork + Assemble in the spotlight

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Today we look at a planning application for a 59-storey residential tower on the site of Phillip Shirts at 274-276 Little Lonsdale Street. The Peddle Thorp-designed tower would join two other recent projects for Brady Corp in Melbourne Sky and Melbourne Star as it shares a boundary and obscures the latter's eastern wall.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/phillips_shirt.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Current Philips Shirts building on site. © Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/phillips_shirt.jpg?itok=R0sDPTEz" title="Current Philips Shirts building on site. © Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Current Phillips Shirts building on site. © Peddle Thorp</figcaption></figure>Approval is sought to demolish the majority of an existing three storey brick building to accommodate the apartment tower. The existing façade will be retained along the Little Lonsdale Street frontage and will continue along Zevenboom Lane for approximately 17.4 metres. A good outcome considering it has been identified as having little heritage significance.

<blockquote>
Whilst it is noted this façade has not been heritage listed, it is considered that this existing façade contributes positively to the streetscape (including in terms of scale and rhythm of window openings) and is worthy of retention to enhance the streetscape address of the site. Furthermore, its adaption will form an appealing feature of the proposed development scheme at the site.
<cite>Urbis Planning Report</cite>
</blockquote>

A wrap of two ground level retail tenancies addresses the Little Lonsdale Street and Zevenboom Lane corner. The main entry lobby, loading facilities and other ancillary services complete the ground floor with bicycle parking and car parking reserved for the four basement levels.

<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/retained_phillips_shirts_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Retained facade to Little Lonsdale Street and Zevenboom Lane © Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="373" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/retained_phillips_shirts_0.jpg?itok=Esr0nLL2" title="Retained facade to Little Lonsdale Street and Zevenboom Lane © Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Retained facade to Little Lonsdale Street and Zevenboom Lane © Peddle Thorp</figcaption></figure><h2>Urban Context</h2>

The proposal lies in a quarter of the city currently undergoing a significant transformation with projects such as <a href="/buildings/eporo-tower-279-la-trobe-street-melbourne">Eporo Tower</a>, <a href="/buildings/the-carlson-321-la-trobe-street-melbourne">Carlson Tower</a> and <a href="/buildings/la-trobe-tower-323-la-trobe-street-melbourne">Latrobe Tower</a> to the immediate north and <a href="/buildings/380-melbourne-380-lonsdale-street-melbourne">380 Lonsdale Street</a> to the south. 278 Little Lonsdale would be one of the taller buildings in the area as illustrated by 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/exist_building_heights.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Existing building heights diagram. © Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="396" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/exist_building_heights.jpg?itok=ogd3Lrxg" title="Existing building heights diagram. © Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Existing building heights diagram. © Peddle Thorp</figcaption></figure>This wouldn't be of concern unless you factor in the site footprint relative to some of the other towers of similar height. At 735sqm the site is significantly smaller than the foortprints of Melbourne Central and the future development at 380 Lonsdale Street. These towers also have frontages along major CBD streets whereas the development is within a largely small scale 'neighbourhood' defined by red brick low-rise buildings bisected by a network of laneways.

<h2>The Tower</h2>

The main tower element rising behind the retained facade shares an aesthetic quality with its older yet shorter siblings to the west. Sheer glazed curtain walls are interrupted by the revealing of balconies behind.

Similarly to Australia 108 the facade features a stripped gradation from top to bottom with the stripes becoming incrementally more contracted towards the tower's pinnicale. This volume above a 'podium' with a furrier treatment involves a bronze coloured veil similar to original designs for another Peddle Thorp design, Vision tower at 500 Elizabeth Street. This splash of colour continues to the western boundary of the tower in the form of solid spandrels which rise up the remainder of the tower.

<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/tower_form.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="278 Lt Lonsdale Street in situ. © Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="239" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tower_form.jpg?itok=SxVR2GhS" title="278 Lt Lonsdale Street in situ. © Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>278 Lt Lonsdale Street in situ. © Peddle Thorp</figcaption></figure><h2>Project Summary</h2>

<ul>
<li>Building height: 59-storeys, 186m to top of plant</li>
	<li>Retention of Phillips Shirts' facade</li>
	<li>314 apartments in total</li>
	<li>127 x 1 Bed, 144 x 2 Bed, 43 x 3 Bed</li>
	<li>42 car spaces serviced via car stacker system to basement levels 2-4</li>
	<li>94 Bicycle spaces to basement level 1</li>
	<li>158sqm of ground floor retail</li>
</ul>
<h2>Comment</h2>

The proposed development continues the recent trend of large scale high-rises encroaching on the relatively low scale streetscapes which define Melbourne's 'Little' streets and laneways. I've always been a proponent for skyscrapers in the CBD, I won't shy away from that fact, however I don't consider developments of this scale to be appropriate responses to the character and grain of these areas.

The footprints of these sites is generally much smaller than the larger sites on the primary CBD streets. This results in narrow skyscrapers with two shared boundaries that if built to the extremity as usually tends to occur, creates a 'wall' effect that is amplified on much smaller streets from a pedestrian perspective.

I don't consider this to be a desirable outcome and would invite anyone to tell me otherwise or convince me that these are the type of streets we wish to create moving forward. The benchmark for development in these smaller scale streets should be the more modest additions found on McKillop Street or Hardware Lane - unobtrusive yet worth tilting your head up to appreciate. Leave the big towers to the major streets and their intersections.

<h2>Project Team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: 278 Little Lonsdale Pty Ltd</li>
	<li>Architecture: Peddle Thorp</li>
	<li>Planning: Urbis</li>
	<li>ESD: SBE</li>
	<li>Traffic: Cardno</li>
	<li>Waste: Wastech</li>
</ul>
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Planning Application: 278 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

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Today we look at an application which seeks to address some of the recent concerns surrounding housing diversity in apartment living and resident amenity. Z66, to be located at 66 Lygon St in Carlton would see the current building occupied by the <a href="http://www.downtowner.com.au/">DownTowner</a> demolished to make way for a 14-storey, <a href="http://www.fkaustralia.com/">Fender</a> <a href="http://www.fkaustralia.com/">Katsalidis</a>-designed apartment building.

<blockquote>
The proposal aims to create a new character for the precinct through a dramatic interpretation of the traditional stepped approach of the tower and podium massing. Instead there is an integrated tower and podium, where the "U" shaped form of the podium clasps the tower from below.

As an overarching design philosophy, the proposal aims to stack the mass that would have been available by developing the whole site, into a smaller building footprint to provide all apartments with views out and eliminate south facing or internally overlooking apartments.

This results in a higher form, however we feel this is appropriate given the significant nature of the corner site on main roads; the height has no additional detriment to neighbours through overshadowing or overlooking; and we feel this height is an appropriate transition from the tall city towers to the finer grain of Lygon Street to the north.
<cite>Fender Katsalidis, design philosophy extract</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Building layout</h2>

Z66 has been designed to maximise solar access with all apartments benefiting from a 'great outlook' that has resulted from no apartments overlooking one another, and no south facing orientation.

The impacts of any future neighbouring developments have also been considered with a considerable setback employed from the western boundary above the ground floor area, and to the east above level four. This doesn't just safeguard the amenity of residents in Z66 but also any future neighbours.

The ground floor consists of a wrap of retail to Lygon and Queensberry Streets with all ancillary programme relegated to the shared accessway to the south. The retail to the north is setback from the boundary to form a sheltered colonnade to Queensberry Street and a landscaped outdoor area is located to the south-east and north-east corners of the site. Apartments facing the landscaped area feature a 'balcony buffer' which in turn acts a buffer between the development and the adjoining Romanian Orthodox Church.

<blockquote>
Habitable rooms, such as bedrooms and living rooms in each apartments have access to direct light and air. Living rooms and bedrooms are oriented to face balconies or the external edge of the building, and provided with operable windows for access to natural ventilation. 'Borrowing' of light is avoided.

The setback from the East boundary results in a relatively small building footprint, which enables internally overlooking apartments to be eliminated in the development. The open landscaped area to the East also improves the amenity to the Romanian Orthodox Church garden next door. The development receives abundant daylighting to the East and West and south facing apartments are avoided.

On podium levels of the development (levels 1 to 6) larger balconies are incorporated to the apartments on the West side. These balconies also function as a buffer to the busy Lygon Street
<cite>Z66 town planning report</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/z66_ground_floor.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground floor plan. © FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="376" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/z66_ground_floor.jpg?itok=JOoITcZA" title="Ground floor plan. © FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Ground floor plan. © FKA</figcaption></figure><h2>Z66 facade</h2>

The building's facade is articulated via a series of concrete panels and glazed fenestrations. To the north and south the building presents as quite a solid, ordered structure whereby the concrete panels are double height and arranged with a strong emphasis on horizontal movement; the positioning of the panels in a staggered formation give the impression of a shifting in form.

The other visual effect is one of ambiguity of scale: though a 16-storey building the impression is one of only eight or so, at least to the north and south. The eastern and western elevations on the other hand appear far more permeable with glazing taking precedent over concrete, with an almost adhoc approach as to how the facades are presented; the emphasis shifting to a much more vertical movement visually.

<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/z66_elevations.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="East and South Elevations. © FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="371" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/z66_elevations.jpg?itok=OYiCojzj" title="East and South Elevations. © FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>East and South Elevations. © FKA</figcaption></figure><h2>Dwelling diversity</h2>

In their response to "Objective 5.1 - Dwelling Diversity" as gazetted in the Design Guidelines for Higher Density Residential Development, FKA have sought to provide a diverse and balanced mix of apartment types which cater for the needs of a wider target market. Extracted from the planning application, the break up of apartments is illustrated 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/z66_apartment_types.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Dwelling diversity. © FKA"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="344" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/z66_apartment_types.jpg?itok=wNLdD9Ij" title="Dwelling diversity. © FKA" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Dwelling diversity. © FKA</figcaption></figure><h3>Apartment mix and amenities</h3>

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 50%;">
<thead><tr>
<th scope="col">Apartments</th>
			<th scope="col">Quantity</th>
			<th scope="col">Area</th>
		</tr></thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>One Bedroom</td>
			<td>100 apts</td>
			<td>42-59m²</td>
		</tr>
<tr>
<td>Two Bedroom</td>
			<td>118 apts</td>
			<td>59-75m²</td>
		</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
The development is also comprised of a residential amenity space at ground level that can be used by residents for dining, lounging, meetings as well as appreciating the landscaped area fronting Queensberry Street.

<h3>Apartment types</h3>

Within each apartment category (one bedroom or two bedrooms), there are different layouts to suit different living arrangements. Within the one bed apartment units, there are two types, which are the one bed plus study and the one bed. The one bed plus study layout could suit a couple where 1 person works from home or requires a separate study space. The one bed will be a more affordable option for single person or couple where the study space can be part of the bedroom.

Within the two bed apartment units, there are also two types. One type is an option for two people sharing the same unit, and another type is suited for a couple who require an extra room for guests / older children or even study space.

<h2>Z66 in a nutshell</h2>

<ul>
<li>Projected project cost of $47 million.</li>
	<li>218 apartments over 16-storeys.</li>
	<li>428sqm landscaped area addressing Queensberry Street and the Romanian Orthodox Church.</li>
	<li>103 + 2 tandem car spaces and 99 bike spaces across two basement floors./li&gt;</li>
	<li>Allocation of 30 visitor bike spaces.</li>
	<li>213sqm of resident amenities.</li>
	<li>Height: 57.10m.</li>
	<li>Mixture of one and two bedroom apartments.</li>
	<li>361sqm of retail on ground floor.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Comment</h2>

The proposal while not ground breaking in terms of its architecture sets itself apart from other similar developments; while it employs a built form almost twice that which is called for in the Design Development Overlay it does not seek to occupy the entirety of the site. In doing so it achieves a quality outcome for the residents who would call it home and provides saperation between itself and the Romanian Orthodox Church rather than suffocating it by developing to its site boundaries but a lower height.

The design team have conceived what can be best described as a thoughful proposal, one that assesses any potential impacts in the short-term but also long term future. Similar to Piccolo Developments' Upper House nearby, Z66 would command a corner site and as such greater height is appropriate to address its position.

This particular stretch of Queensberry Street will continue to see significant development and growth with medium to higher density slowly creeping from the confines of the traditional CBD.

<h2>Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Architecture: Fender Katsalidis.</li>
	<li>Proponent: Zagames Corporation.</li>
	<li>Planning: Tixxis Consulting.</li>
	<li>Waste: Leigh Design.</li>
	<li>ESD: Cundall.</li>
	<li>Traffic: Cardno.</li>
	<li>Heritage: Bryce Raworth.</li>
</ul>
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A rather unorthodox approach: 66 Lygon Street, Carlton

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Urban.com.au recently caught up with <a href="http://www.chc.com.au/">ClarkeHopkinsClarke</a> Partner Toby Lauchlan to discuss their Pica development in Richmond which forms part of their growing body of work.

<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/140623_-_richmond_aerial_-_final_2000_reduced.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pica Richmond Aerial. © Clarke Hopkins Clarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140623_-_richmond_aerial_-_final_2000_reduced.jpg?itok=BOkbv51t" title="Pica Richmond Aerial. © Clarke Hopkins Clarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pica Richmond Aerial. © ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure>Laurence Dragomir: Can you provide us with a brief overview of Pica's internal specs including apartment sizes, finishes and what differentiates the development from a buyer's perspective?

Toby Lauchlan: We started Pica back in 2011, it comprises 19 bespoke apartments over six storeys at 8-10 New Street in inner Richmond. It's a brilliant location, in really close proximity to parks, Fitzroy Gardens, the MCG and so forth. The developer owns a ballooning company called <a href="http://www.picturethisballooning.com.au/">Picture This Ballooning</a> and has operated onsite for many, many years in the current building so there was a strong reference to this ballooning culture in Melbourne and the history of the site.

In essence it's about reinventing the site for the new generation of people that are going to live there, so the exterior responds to this with a strong ballooning reference which has been abstracted over the height of the building. We've now got a series of rectilinear forms that appear to float up and over the streetscape, and then there are a number of large panels that began as direct images of balloons and through working closely with David Pidgeon (graphic designer) the images evolved into a series of pixellated references of clouds, skies and balloons. The panels also incorporate visual cues to Melbourne's four seasons in a day.

There are taller buildings around Richmond, but this is taller than its immediate context so it offers up some spectacular views. Much of the marketing material associated with the project revolved around the views and the artwork.

Croten Investment's Damian Crock has been closely involved all the way along the process, working together with the interiors team at ClarkeHopkinsClarke (CHC) to create a neutral palette inside. It's a very black and white scheme but with really crisp finishes; black taps and other fittings, black high-gloss overhead cupboards above the kitchens with a white joinery base. We've tried to keep the palette simple internally but quite vibrant externally.

The development targets the owner-occupier market; every apartment is different, no two apartments are the same and there's a mix of 9 one-bedroom and 10 two-bedroom apartments ranging from approximately 50sqm to one that is over 100sqm on the top floor with views towards the city. There's a small café on the ground level near the main entry, 14 car spaces, 20 bicycle parks and 2 motorcycle spaces spread across ground and first floor.

With only 19 apartments it's quite a compact development, very boutique but with some great height on it.

LD: With no two apartments being the same did that throw up any challenges for the design team?

TL: If you compare it to other apartment buildings that we're doing across Melbourne within the middle ring and inner urban areas, predominantly we do try and get repetition where possible. This leads to efficiency in apartment types but on a project like Pica, which is quite constrained site-wise, has setback requirements and so forth, the inevitable result was that we ended up with different apartment types. In saying that there's a lot of standardisation in joinery units, kitchens and bathrooms. So that did throw up some challenges but nothing too extreme.

<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/140611_-_richmond_-_living_-_kitchen_-_final_-_2000.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Pica interior. © Clarke Hopkins Clarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="390" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/140611_-_richmond_-_living_-_kitchen_-_final_-_2000.jpg?itok=4Y42jHM0" title="Pica interior. © Clarke Hopkins Clarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Pica interior. © ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure>LD: Can you tell us a bit about the practice, the type of work you do?

TL: There's 65 people in the practice, so it's a large practice and we're quite diverse in the sectors that we target. The practice was founded in 1960 by partners Les Clarke, David Hopkins and Jack Clarke, designing houses but also with a real focus on the retail and education sectors.

Melbourne’s ClarkeHopkinsClarke has more than 50 plus years’ experience in creating vibrant communities across the design of entire urban communities as well as education, multi-residential, health and aged care projects.

CHC’s extensive knowledge of technical requirements and ability to lead design trends, across a variety of building types are critical to our success.

As well as our multi-sector portfolio of works CHC are currently carrying out a major research process into the key elements that make up a vibrant community and are actively leading the discussion on our St Germain greenfield development with the State Government’s Metropolitan Planning Authority as to how these theories can be tested in reality. www.creatingvibrantcommunities.com aims to start to bring together a wider array of stakeholders, designers and government and provide new tools to help improve the quality of life for those living in new greenfield suburbs.

LD: Would it be correct to say that CHC seem excessively strong in mixed-use developments. Would you say that this is now the practice's area of expertise?

TL: We've developed and evolved over the years so yes we do a lot of mixed-use and Pica for example is essentially a mixed-use project with retail being a very small component to it. We do a lot of pure residential but also a lot of mixed-use with a residential focus that include a small cafe at ground floor, SOHO's or offices for example. There's also a number of large retail focused projects with apartments, with townhouses etc, so there's a real cross section.

Then there's the outer urban but my focus within the practice is multi-res and mixed use in the middle and inner urban developments.

LD: What do you / the practice consider to be the main factors which most influence a CHC design and sets it apart from other architectural practices in Melbourne?

TL: I think having a real experience across all sectors allows us to bring that experience into individual projects, particularly those middle ring areas like Brunswick, Doncaster, Essendon Glen Huntly, Kew; sort of scattered everywhere. We work closely with a lot of councils during the town planning and pre-application phases, we provide community spaces, a strong retail base to the building that the apartment focus can really drive off that as well.

We have a really good design ethos in the practice, we attempt to push every project, getting individuality and strong identities to our buildings, driving off those for the marketing. But then there's also a real focus on the provision of amenity and really maximising it: the natural light, the openness, terraces, the interface with the public realm and then creating a sense of community within.

We do a thorough site analysis looking at the context, the history of the site, the amenities within the precinct that can be used by future residents, how does the retail respond to the existing retail strip. There's a lot of aspects that we look at to bring into and help inform the project as well as responding with our clients' imperative and ensuring the project will be successful for them. There's the marketing side of it so if a project's not marketable, if it doesn't generate any interest or residents and tenants don't like the building then it's not a successful project.

LD: It seems like the practice places a strong emphasis on the macro scale as well. Looking beyond just the site in question at not just its immediate context, but also how it fits in within a greater precinct?

TL: Our practice works on a number of new growth suburbs, new town centres and so we're doing a lot of urban design work in those areas with projects like <a href="http://www.chc.com.au/soho-village/">Soho Village</a> which is a project CHC Partner Dean Landy has been working on down at Point Cook. It comprises apartments, townhouses, a small boutique supermarket (name to be confirmed), church and office buildings; essentially designing that whole community, making sure that it works and that it fits in within a predominantly single storey, single dwelling suburb.

Having that experience through to working with Coles and Woolworths who are a couple of our bigger clients that are also involved with a lot of mixed-use developments such as <a href="http://www.chc.com.au/highett-road-shopping-centre-and-apartments/">Highett Road</a>. The project was completed a year or so ago and features 130 apartments above a full line Woolworths supermarket with 17 specialty stores and office space. Having those projects and the connections they create within the community; this type of project influences our inner urban residential work and other mixed use projects.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2013_udia_vic_awards_highett_mixed_use_02.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Highett Road Shopping Centre and Apartments. © Clarke Hopkins Clarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2013_udia_vic_awards_highett_mixed_use_02.jpg?itok=xG8I8cuJ" title="Highett Road Shopping Centre and Apartments. © Clarke Hopkins Clarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Highett Road Shopping Centre and Apartments. © ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure>A few projects that I'd like to mention are one that was just completed and launched last week in Doncaster, Six Thiele Street. A purely multi-residential development of 50 luxury apartments, with no retail component as it's located on the fringe of Doncaster's retail precinct close to Westfield Shopping Centre, and features a mix of one and two beds over 4-storeys with a three bedroom apartment on top.

<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/thiele_-_exterior_-_final.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Six Thiele Street Doncaster. © Clarke Hopkins Clarke"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="337" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/thiele_-_exterior_-_final.jpg?itok=fR9AgQfT" title="Six Thiele Street Doncaster. © Clarke Hopkins Clarke" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Six Thiele Street Doncaster. © ClarkeHopkinsClarke</figcaption></figure>We then have a few in Brunswick such as Fabrik Apartments on Albert and Beith Street. The area is seeing quite a number of apartment buildings going up, one which we've been working on that's just been approved by council is in Breese St. It's 7 levels and has been praised by the council for its architecture and design. There's a cafe at ground with 60 or so apartments above that feature 6-star apartments with rain gardens and an environmental focus.

LD: Lastly, to finish us off, is the practice looking at making the transition to working on high-rise multi-residential projects?

TL: Going back many years we started off working on a number of 3-4 storey apartment buildings and it has increased with the middle ring being in the vicinity of 5-7 storeys which we're doing a lot of at the moment. We have looked at and are currently looking at a number of high-rise projects so stay tuned. One of the taller projects we have worked on is the <a href="http://www.chc.com.au/mutual-store-and-empire-apartments/"> Mutual Store and Empire Apartments</a> on Flinders Street, and that involved the construction of 14 new floors so still high-rise but not the 100-storey scale.

Stay tuned as there are definitely some high-rises in the pipeline as part of our portfolio of creating vibrant communities around all of our projects across every sector.

LD: Looking forward to hearing more about them in the not-too-distant future. Thanks again for your time Toby.
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Interview with Toby Lauchlan from ClarkeHopkinsClarke 

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The Latin expression 'De Novo' is generally understood to mean 'a new beginning' or 'starting afresh' and while not the name of the proposed development at 14-16 The Esplanade, it's quite an apt description as it ushers in a new era for the highly recognisable bayside site. The four-star Novotel St Kilda situated over 5,800sqm is subject to a current planning application which would do away with the predominantly precast structure in favour of hundreds of dwellings.

<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/14-16_the_espy.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="View from The Esplanade. © Metier3"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="255" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/14-16_the_espy.jpg?itok=EiYkv1B8" title="View from The Esplanade. © Metier3" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>View from The Esplanade. © Metier3</figcaption></figure>Designed by local firm <a href="http://www.metier3.com.au/">Metier3</a>, the 7-storey, 300 apartment development marks Sydney firm <a href="http://www.baranagroup.com.au/">Barana Group'</a>s first foray into the Melbourne residential market given they own the existing hotel. According to a 2014 AFR article Novotel will likely continue to operate for some years yet due to Accor's existing management agreement, so the development is very much a long term prospect.

Regardless a planning application has been lodged with City of Port Phillip with plans available for public perusal over the new year period.

<h2>14-16 The Esplanade</h2>

<ul>
<li>Project value: $55 million</li>
	<li>300 apartments in a converted and expanded existing structure</li>
	<li>166 * 1BR, 71 * 2BR, 31 * 3BR, 32 * townhouse</li>
	<li>Two Buildings to RL 27.2 metres in height</li>
	<li>352 car spaces, 30 motor bike spaces and 145 bicycle spaces across three levels of basement parking</li>
	<li>Swimming pool, gym, spa and associated facilities at basement level</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/plan_level_1.png" rel="gallery-all" title="14-16 The Esplanade Level 1 Plan. © Metier3"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="605" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/plan_level_1.png?itok=aOI7vN7k" title="14-16 The Esplanade Level 1 Plan. © Metier3" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>14-16 The Esplanade Level 1 Plan. © Metier3</figcaption></figure><h2>Alfred Square</h2>

A key consideration of the proposal is its response to the objectives and strategies of the St Kilda Foreshore Urban Design Framework (2003) with regard to improving the public realm. 14-16 The Esplanade's proposed development would see engagement with Upper Esplanade and Alfred Square, outlined in the following ways:

<ul>
<li>Improve the Alfred Square edge to Upper Esplanade to make the square more accessible and inviting to enter from the street;</li>
	<li>Prepare a landscape plan for Alfred Square that recognises the role of the square as a ceremonial, commemorative and contemplative space and traditional viewing place;</li>
	<li>Address the conservation of heritage fabric, augmentation of the formal design, enhancement of interpretive values and views, improvements to amenity, provision of additional, coordinated seating and shelter, and replacement of aging surface materials of Alfred Square.</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/urban_design_strategy.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Strategy for Alfred Square. © Metier3"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="451" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/urban_design_strategy.png?itok=gm07c6G_" title="Strategy for Alfred Square. © Metier3" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Strategy for Alfred Square. © Metier3</figcaption></figure><h2>Site history</h2>

The site has seen a numerous entertainment-based uses over the course of almost a century with the first building to open on the site being the Wattle Path Dance Saloon and Café. It later played host to Melbourne's most famous ice skating rink, St Moritz between 1939 and 1981, becoming enormously popular during the war years and accommodating up to 2,000 people on its 1,850sqm ice rink.

<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/stmoritz_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="St Moritz Ice Rink, St Kilda. © City of Port Phillip"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/stmoritz_1.jpg?itok=lK1_ITYr" title="St Moritz Ice Rink, St Kilda. © City of Port Phillip" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>St Moritz Ice Rink, St Kilda. © City of Port Phillip</figcaption></figure>Following its closure the complex succumbed to fire during 1984, which is not unusual for buildings in St Kilda...or so it would seem. The St Moritz Bar at Medibank IceHouse in is named in honour of the famous rink. The St Moritz hotel was then developed onsite during the early 1990's before being renamed as Novotel ­Bayside upon Accor taking over the venue, only to assume the current Novotel Melbourne, St Kilda thereafter.

<h2>Comment</h2>

The proposal seeks to create a stronger edge and definition to Alfred Square and The Esplanade by occupying the full extent of the site. There exists the risk that the development will read as a great big wall, due to the articulation of the form and consistent height of both buildings. Further division of the proposals form via the introduction of a north-south site link, thus creating three buildings, would provide some variation to the height of each building and go some way to alleviating the potential perception of uniform bulk.

Additionally while the three buildings could be treated as a 'family' with a variation of the modular facade, a shared DNA that while similar offers a point of difference for each building.

Overall the proposal breathes new life into a site that while prominent does not fulfill its true potential as a cornerstone of the St Kilda foreshore. It will certainly be interesting to see how the greater community responds to the development plans, could it be another St Kilda Triangle episode?

<h2>Project team</h2>

<ul>
<li>Developer: Barana Group</li>
	<li>Architects: Metier3</li>
	<li>​Town Planning: Message Consultants​</li>
	<li>Traffic: Cardno</li>
	<li>ESD: JBA</li>
	<li>Landscaping: Papworth Design</li>
	<li>Waste: Leigh Design</li>
	<li>Land sales agent: Mark Wizel, CBRE</li>
</ul>
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A new beginning for St Kilda's Novotel?

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Urban.com.au spoke with Hayball Managing Director Tom Jordan upon the practice's <a href="http://www.hayball.com.au/news/world-architecture-100-2015/">recent entry into the World Architecture top 100</a>. While exploring the factors which led to this achievement, various other topics such as current projects and future aspirations were discussed during an interview with Laurence Dragomir.

LD: The World Architecture 100 is based on data gathered via survey, ranking the biggest practices globally. What is your/the practice's view on how and why Hayball have advanced into the ranking - in terms of design strength and a purely business perspective?

TJ: I guess it's a product of our steady growth over the last few years which is ongoing and that's based on consolidating our profile in the key sectors we work in - multi-unit residential and education, but also new sectors and new markets. We've got the Sydney and Adelaide offices, we're active in Brisbane, all of which have contributed to growth. The practice has also had a number of works published and recognised by the Australian Institute of Architects which has helped build our profile and thus led to more work.

LD: Does the practice consider its inclusion in the WA100 as a matter of prestige within the industry or do you believe it will translate into an increase in job commissions?

TJ: I think the effects will be pretty subtle, but I think it doesn't hurt the profile - it's more profile building material.

LD: Looking at Woods Bagot for example, who are the top ranked Australian practice at no. 7 on the list, they have a very global network and profile. As you mentioned Hayball now have offices in Sydney and Adelaide and are undertaking work in Brisbane, do you forecast any further expansion potentially offshore in the not-too-distant future?

TJ: We're definitely open to it, but it would be opportunity driven if it were to happen. Hayball do work in South-East Asia at the moment but we do it all from here in Melbourne. In terms of opening an office in SE Asia, that's probably beyond a 5-year plan.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/tom_jordan_head_shot.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hayball Managing Director Tom Jordan. © Hayball"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tom_jordan_head_shot.jpg?itok=LYMpD0-n" title="Hayball Managing Director Tom Jordan. © Hayball" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hayball Managing Director Tom Jordan. Image courtesy Hayball</figcaption></figure>LD: Do you mind providing us with an overview of the practice's staff numbers and the number of projects in progress at any one time?

TJ: Sure, we have a current staff of around 120 with all bar four located in our Melbourne office. In terms of project numbers we have around about 50 at the moment that are currently being worked on and there are others that are dormant.

LD: Are those projects predominantly multi-residential and education?

TJ: Historically they've made up the majority of our work but we're increasingly getting a lot more urban mater planning work, interiors work and institutional work of various types. So even though education and residential make up about 80% of our work the other sectors are starting to see an increase as an overall proportion of our work. It's been our strategy to maintain a diverse project mix as much as possible.

LD: With high-rise apartments in Melbourne being largely driven by offshore developers in recent times, have you found that your clientele has changed somewhat? Obviously the practice continues to work with Lend Lease on projects such as Studio Nine.

TJ: I think site acquisition is driven by offshore investors rather than developers. We've got one or two mainland Chinese clients but the majority of our work continues to be with Australian-based developers. We're doing work with Mammoth Empire (Malaysia) and we've been working with them for about five years both locally and in Malaysia.

They are a professional developer, not a land banker and are particularly active. But we're still doing work with Lend Lease, MAB and a host of smaller developers.

LD: Would the experience and publicity gained via working on a project such as Library at the Dock, being the first CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) public building to be built in Australia reinforce that view?

TJ: The effects of that are still emerging, but we expect that it will have a profile generating result. It will be really interesting to see where CLT goes and how widely adopted it becomes.

<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/libraryexternal21080px.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Library at The Dock. © Lend Lease"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/libraryexternal21080px.jpg?itok=odKhbdVy" title="Library at The Dock. © Lend Lease" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Library at The Dock. © Lend Lease</figcaption></figure>LD: Do you see the practice becoming a really strong proponent for CLT or is it something that is driven by developers? 

TJ: Yes CLT is a great system but it does require quite a specific technical understanding as it's not a conventional construction system by any means. We've developed that from working on the library so I do think Hayball are a proponent of it.

We’re really pushing forward with it because of the range of benefits in terms of cost, ESD, minimal wastage, reduced embodied energy and very quick on site.

LD: The practice has recently introduced a employee share scheme, becoming the first in Australian architecture firm to do so. Can you tell us a bit more about that?

TJ: We have a small number of non-director shareholders and we recently expanded that group. It is about acknowledging the contribution people make to the practice, retaining and attracting talent which leads to growth in the business and giving key staff a connection to the financial performance of the business.

LD: Do you think it's something that will become more prevalent in the industry?

TJ: Possibly, but it will be slow. Obviously engineering practices have been doing it for a very long time with great success but they're different beasts relative to architectural practices. I don't see it as being a dramatic shift in that direction. We're undertaking it in a systematic and targeted way, steadily broadening the ownership and we see it as very positive program for our practice.

LD: And just to finish off what do you think the future holds for the practice and what do you see as being some of the major challenges facing the industry in the future?

TJ: What we have in our plan is expanding our exposure geographically particularly along the eastern seaboard including Adelaide - we've got a bit of work in Tasmania at the moment - but also getting more exposure to higher education and commercial sectors that we don't currently have a lot of. That's where Hayball's heading.

Overall the profession does face a number of challenges. I think the influence that architects have in the procurement process has diminished over the last 10-15 years and there is an opportunity to strengthen our role through the whole building delivery process, not just during the early design and planning approval phases in order to achieve high quality built outcomes for the community.

LD: Thanks again for your time, Tom.
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Hayball enters the ranks of the World Architecture top 100 for 2015

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Last week <a href="http://www.places.vic.gov.au/">Places Victoria</a> lodged a planning application for the Harbour Esplanade Master Plan with City of Melbourne who have since commenced assessment of the master plan, and will in due course prepare a report for consideration by the Future Melbourne (Planning) Committee sometime in early 2015.

<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/tile_harbouresplanade1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Harbour Esplanade. © Places Victoria"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="408" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tile_harbouresplanade1.jpg?itok=b5OSlFO7" title="Harbour Esplanade. © Places Victoria" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Harbour Esplanade. © Places Victoria</figcaption></figure>In July 2014, Places Victoria and the City of Melbourne engaged <a href="http://www.hassellstudio.com/">Hassell</a> to refine the Harbour Esplanade Master Plan for what has thus far been an underutilised urban centrepiece for Docklands. The Master Plan is a blueprint for the future development of a flexible, adaptive and changing event space by the water. It proposes an 8m wide waterfront promenade spanning the full length of Harbour Esplanade and features seven key zones:

<ul>
<li>An Urban Plaza Zone at the southern end of Harbour Esplanade including a green area and improved east-west connections and crossings for pedestrians.</li>
	<li>An Exhibition and Events Zone, with flexible spaces that can be activated for events and exhibitions.This area will include some buildings and the potential for restored heritage sheds or elements of heritage sheds.</li>
	<li>A Water Transport Zone, making provision for a future ferry terminal.</li>
	<li>A Central Entrance and Service Zone, providing a key entry point to Central Pier and a flexible area for transport services during events.</li>
	<li>A Recreation Zone at the northern end of Harbour Esplanade featuring a water play space for families, a green area and improved east-west connections and crossings for pedestrians. This area will also include some buildings and the potential for restored heritage sheds or elements of heritage sheds, however views from LaTrobe Street to the harbour will be protected.</li>
	<li>A Heritage Vessel Zone, making provision for heritage vessels to be moored in the harbour.</li>
	<li>An Active Street Edge Zone which will see the improvement of the eastern street edge in front of Etihad Stadium.</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/harbour_esplanade_summary.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Harbour Esplanade Master Plan Overview. © Hassell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="375" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/harbour_esplanade_summary.jpg?itok=RWbI0ziB" title="Harbour Esplanade Master Plan Overview. © Hassell" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Harbour Esplanade Master Plan Overview. © Hassell</figcaption></figure><h2>Looking beyond Harbour Esplanade to Central Pier</h2>

Of particular interest is Central Pier; although not encompassed within the Harbour Esplanade Master Plan, Places Victoria considers it to be a vital component of the Docklands waterfront that will ultimately breathe new life into the area. As such Places Victoria intends to begin progressing ideas to develop Central Pier in 2015.

<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/tile_harbouresplanade2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Central Pier / Harbour Esplanade. © Places Victoria"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="408" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tile_harbouresplanade2.jpg?itok=jdmjA57E" title="Central Pier / Harbour Esplanade. © Places Victoria" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Central Pier / Harbour Esplanade. © Places Victoria</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
Places Victoria is the custodian of the historic Central Pier on behalf of the Victorian Government and the people of Victoria. The 350 metre extension into the waterways of Victoria Harbour is almost 100 years old and, together with Harbour Esplanade, forms the centrepiece of Docklands.

In 2006, Places Victoria entered into a lease agreement with Corporate Events Australia and The Atlantic Group, which saw the historic sheds on Central Pier restored for function spaces, offices and restaurants. The lease ensures that the use of Central Pier is maximised in the short to medium-term while providing flexibility to develop a long-term vision for the development of the area.

Central Pier’s Shed 9 is now one of the largest event spaces in Melbourne and Shed 14 is home to the Woolshed Pub, the artisan bread house Mill &amp; Bakery, Italian eatery Va Bene and cocktail bar Alumbra.

Places Victoria’s long-term vision for Central Pier is for it to become the most significant public water site in Victoria – a lively, interactive public hub at the centre of Docklands that will become a major destination for residents, workers and visitors of Docklands.
<cite>Places Victoria</cite>
</blockquote>

The Esplanade Master Plan is <a href="http://www.places.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/12330/Harbour-Esplanade-Master-Plan-Submitted-to-City-of-Melbourne-December-2014.PDF">available for viewing</a>. For more information, visit the <a href="http://www.places.vic.gov.au/precincts-and-development/docklands/building-a-community/harbouresplanade">Places Victoria website</a>.
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Places Victoria submits Harbour Esplanade Masterplan

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In the last week hoardings have gone up at the base of RMIT's Building 8 to signal the beginning of works on RMIT's New Academic Street (NAS) 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/10359540_372588816247089_951174457165578065_n.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Hoarding going up on site. Image courtesy of MvS Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="329" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/10359540_372588816247089_951174457165578065_n.jpg?itok=aeHpUwDU" title="Hoarding going up on site. Image courtesy of MvS Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Hoarding going up on site. Image courtesy of MvS Architects</figcaption></figure>The project sees <a href="http://www.mvsarchitects.com.au/doku.php?id=home">MvS Architects</a> teaming up with <a href="http://www.lyonsarch.com.au/">Lyons</a>, <a href="http://www.nmbw.com.au/">NMBW</a>, <a href="http://www.haw.com.au/">HAW</a> and <a href="http://www.maddisonarchitects.com.au/">Peter Maddison</a> to deliver a more permeable and active streetscape for the city campus. Landscape architects Taylor Cullity Leathlen round out the multi-disciplinary design team.

<blockquote>
The NAS project is a complex ‘live’ environment refurbishment (approximately 25,500m2) and new build project (approximately 6,500m2) over 12 levels of five adjoining buildings on the City campus (Buildings 8, 10, 12, 14 and 28) which will reinvigorate and reinvent the heart of the RMIT City campus.

The project works will comprise of a sequence of phased major works delivering the principle campus improvement while being cognisant of maintaining access and minimising disruption to university operations.

The NAS project will improve services for students and library facilities, campus retail and way-finding, achieve activation of Swanston, Bowen and Franklin Streets and renew vertical transport and ageing infrastructure.
<cite>RMIT University</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>'Getting Going' Phase: September 2014 - June 2015</h2>

The first phase of the NAS project is a series of works and upgrades to get the campus ready for the main construction phase.

Staff and student services on levels 3, 4 and 5 of building 8 - and 2, 3, 4 and parts of level 5 and 6 of buildings 10, 12 and 14 - will move to another part of RMIT so the NAS construction can start mid-2015. This will be achieved by upgrading facilities within the current RMIT property footprint.

In late 2014 until mid-2015, the project will be moving, refurbishing and putting in place preparations for the building works to start.

The entire program of work has been planned to ensure minimal disruption to staff and students, but there will be some impacts.

New and temporary facilities will be built and some staff and students will be moving to make way for the building works to start. For small numbers, it may be a permanent move.

This is the preparation phase before the NAS construction program starts, which is mid-2015.

<h2>Looking ahead to 2015</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/image84_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Something approaching the final outcome. Image courtesy RMIT"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="328" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image84_0.jpg?itok=u1EaO0e-" title="Something approaching the final outcome. Image courtesy RMIT" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Something approaching the final outcome. Image courtesy RMIT</figcaption></figure>The building 8 cafeteria will close early in 2015 and will be replaced by a pop-up food area on the City campus. The Swanston Library will close during the 2015 mid-year semester break and re-open at 50 per cent capacity in July 2015.

For more info visit RMIT's project page: http://www.rmit.edu.au/capitalworks/nas

A comprehensive album of renders and montages can be found on the dedicated <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/rmit/sets/72157646079536512/">NAS flickr page</a>.
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Work begins on RMIT's New Academic Street Project

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Just 12 months on from its completion, 171 Collins Street, has become the first premium building in Australia (and the second-largest Victorian building) to achieve the Green Building Council of Australia’s (GBCA) 6 Star Green Star As Built Office v2 rating, scoring a record 83 points. The rating recognises the extensive work done by the team managing the building to meet its targets through constant tweaks, extensive day-by-day monitoring and liaison with tenants on their responsibilities.

<blockquote>
The building’s energy performance is now meeting and exceeding the NABERS Energy 5 Star target set. Achieving a Green Star score of 83 is a fantastic reward for our extremely hard working management team and tenants, who take their responsibility to maintaining sustainable practices very seriously.
<cite>Craig Newman, Fund Manager, Charter Hall Office Trust</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/171_collins_foyer.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Inside 171 Collins Street's foyer. © 171collins.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="324" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/171_collins_foyer.jpg?itok=eAJXrCvO" title="Inside 171 Collins Street's foyer. © 171collins.com.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Inside 171 Collins Street's foyer. © 171collins.com.au</figcaption></figure>Designed by award-winning architects Bates Smart, engineered by Umow Lai and managed by Knight Frank Australia, 171 Collins Street features a myriad of best practice sustainability features in an architectural landmark that fuses a heritage façade with modern design.

<blockquote>
In addition to the finely crafted façade, the building incorporates key environmental features to easily achieve a 6 Star Green Star and 5 Star NABERS energy rating. In particular, the use of an under-floor air distribution system provides superior indoor air quality, occupant comfort and flexibility.
<cite>Bates Smart</cite>
</blockquote>

The development consists of 29,800sqm of premium office space, spread over 17 large campus-style floor-plates, and 1,700sqm of boutique office space in the restored heritage building on Collins Street. The lower levels incorporate a business centre and over 1,500sqm of high-end retail space.

The building employs a number of innovative technologies including an Australian-first ceiling tile system that absorbs office pollutants to create a healthier office environment for workers, as well as grey water treatment that recycles shower water to be used in cooling towers and toilets.

<blockquote>
Charter Hall and Cbus Property have long demonstrated a commitment to sustainability, with more than 20 Green Star projects under their belts between them. This newest Green Star rating for 171 Collins Street is a testament to their leadership, and underscores the fact that a Green Star rating is not just a mark of excellence in sustainability, but of quality.
<cite>Romily Madew, GBCA Chief Executive</cite>
</blockquote>

<h2>Sustainability credentials</h2>

<ul>
<li>9 storey glass atrium that maximises natural light.</li>
	<li>Floor to ceiling double glazing with thermal insulation to help maintain occupant comfort.</li>
	<li>High-performance ceramic fritted glass façade to reduce heat gain and glare.</li>
	<li>Dedicated waste storage area for separation, collection and recycling.</li>
	<li>Advanced rainwater and greywater reuse system.</li>
	<li>Highly flexible under-floor air distribution system for superior indoor air quality.</li>
	<li>Highly optimised lighting design with extensive controls for occupancy and daylight harvesting.</li>
	<li>Energy-efficient fixtures and fittings.</li>
	<li>Low-VOC and formaldehyde emissions.</li>
	<li>Premium end-of-trip facilities with 280 bicycle spaces, showers, change rooms and lockers.</li>
	<li>Destination controlled lift systems.</li>
</ul>
The 6 Star Green Star rating is the latest in a string of accolades for 171 Collins Street this year, which makes it Melbourne’s most awarded green building of 2014.

<blockquote>
To achieve a 6 Star Green Star As Built Office V2 rating tops off a fantastic year for 171 Collins Street, which has also been recognised at the International Property Awards Asia Pacific, United Nationals Association of Australia World Environment Awards and Urban Taskforce Development Excellence Awards.
<cite>Adrian Pozzo, Cbus Property CEO</cite>
</blockquote>

In May 2014, 171 Collins Street was recognised at the prestigious International Property Awards (Asia Pacific), where it was judged the Best Commercial High Rise Development in Australia and was also highly commended in the Office Development Australia category. It was also recently awarded the Hanson’s Green Building Award at the United Nations Association of Australia World Environment Day Awards in June 2014 and also received the Sustainability Development Award at the Urban Taskforce Development Excellence Awards 2014.

<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/171_collins_street_lobby_reduced.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="171 Collins Street lobby. © CBUS Property"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="861" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/171_collins_street_lobby_reduced.jpg?itok=eKbyUKLN" title="171 Collins Street lobby. © CBUS Property" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>171 Collins Street lobby. © CBUS Property/Charter Hall</figcaption></figure>
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171 Collins Street achieves 6 Star GBCA Green Star rating

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<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.

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.

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<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.

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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.

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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.

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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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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.

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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.

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<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.”

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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.

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Laurence Dragomir

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