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When a planning application seeks to insert an apartment tower on a site with no discernable view lines, it warrants a closer look. At 16 levels, 22-24 Wells Place Southbank is by no means a monstrous tower, but it is interesting nonetheless.

With frontage only to Wells Place, itself not much more than a secluded laneway, the development will be hemmed in from all sides. West sees 22-24 Wells Place's views obscured by the recently completed Guilfoyle Apartments complex while southern views are inhibited by 10-16 Dorcas Street, save for the highest levels.

Easterly sight lines are impeded by 320 St Kilda Road and will only be compounded further by the approved 20 level, 180 apartment 25-27 Coventry Street development which may start in the near future according to Melbourne City Council's <a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/enterprisemelbourne/Tools/publications/Pages/DevelopmentMonitor.aspx" target="_blank">Development Activity Monitor</a>.

That of course leaves prized northern views to Southbank and Melbourne's CBD, currently in tact although for how long? This northern panorama seems destined to evaporate as well given the approved 33 Coventry Street (which <a href="/news/going-nuts-for-coventry" target="_blank">Urban.com.au touched upon</a> mid last year) lies to the site directly north.

<iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&amp;source=s_q&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=&amp;q=22+wells+place,+southbank&amp;aq=&amp;sll=-37.829514,144.970305&amp;sspn=0.001837,0.003484&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;hq=&amp;hnear=22-24+Wells+St,+Southbank+Victoria+3006&amp;ll=-37.82961,144.969742&amp;spn=0.001845,0.003484&amp;t=m&amp;z=14&amp;output=embed" width="100%"></iframe> <a href="https://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&amp;source=embed&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=&amp;q=22+wells+place,+southbank&amp;aq=&amp;sll=-37.829514,144.970305&amp;sspn=0.001837,0.003484&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;hq=&amp;hnear=22-24+Wells+St,+Southbank+Victoria+3006&amp;ll=-37.82961,144.969742&amp;spn=0.001845,0.003484&amp;t=m&amp;z=14">View Larger Map</a>

As you can see in the cross sections below the intended development is extremely close to its northern and western neighbours, with the southerly Dorcas building within spitting distance as well.

It will be an interesting decision handed down by Melbourne City Council in due course. Factors such as tower setback requirements, the lack of a podium, amenity (namely view lines), adequate natural light and ventilation plus adequate street level activation will need to be considered.

Included within the planning documents are legal machinations highlighting the implications of VCAT's decision in approving the adjoining 33 Coventry Street proposal. VCAT's decision in effect sets a precedent for the area that is in direct contrast to Melbourne City Council's Design and Development Overlay; a precedent which the proponents of 22-24 Wells Place will likely wish to exploit.

Far more learned people than I will find resolution in what may turn into a messy approvals process; none the less it will be interesting to view the recommendations and decisions surrounding this application.

<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/Imaged2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Pandolfini Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="331" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Imaged2.jpg?itok=3kbKtEWw" title="Image © Pandolfini Architects" width="580"></a>

The development itself is the first entry on Apartments.com.au's database for <a href="http://www.pandolfini.com.au/">Pandolfini Architects</a>. At the behest of site owner and established Melbourne developer <a href="http://www.h-p.com.au/" target="_blank">Headland Properties</a>, the embryonic Melbourne architecture firm has devised an interesting tower. With shades of the former Jetset Building on Bourke Street it carries a retro look, yet with a contemporary twist by way of coloured perforated metal screens.

Owing to the small site size, car park entry via Wells Place leads directly onto a turn table with a car lift located behind. Levels 1-4 are split between a solitary 1 bedroom apartment and parking for two vehicles while subsequent levels consist of full floor apartments with ceiling heights of 3.15 metres.

Overall the project holds 16 apartments, complimented by 15 bicycle bays and 14 car parks. A residential foyer fronting Wells Place will be adorned with a public art/light installation display and cover an area of 12 square metres while a roof top terrace includes a open air spa and garden area.

<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/2d-623.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Pandolfini Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="960" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2d-623.jpg?itok=B1aWZnlW" title="Image © Pandolfini Architects" width="580"></a>

Should this tower find approval and advance to construction it will be interesting to see how the appointed builder manages the delivery and materials lift aspects. Wells Place seems marginal at best as a loading bay given its mid block location and narrow dimensions; some innovative construction techniques would be called for.

With the application both received and placed on display by Melbourne City Council in the new year, it will be some time before any final result for 22-24 Wells Place is revealed.
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silvermb

In a tight spot > 22-24 Wells Place, Southbank

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The holiday season has come and gone, with February generally signifying increased activity and a rush of apartment developments released for sales.  So today we highlight a number of upcoming projects, both big and small, which will in the hopes and expectations of their respective developers grace greater Melbourne's skyline in the not too distant future.

<a href="/buildings/metrolitan-melbourne-137-bourke-street-melbourne">Metropolitan - 137 Bourke Street, Melbourne</a> 

Registrations are open for developer <a href="/developers/vimg">VIMG's</a> latest offering.  Located next to Citadines Hotel, "Metropolitan is a 19 floors luxury living apartments building, designed by leading architect <a href="/architects/metaxas-architects">Metaxas</a>. It contains 104 apartments which includes 19*1bed 1bath apartments, 31*1bed 1bath plus study apartments, 53*2bed 1bath and apartments and 1*2bed 2bath penny house. The internal areas for apartments are all over 43 square meters. The biggest internal area apartment which has 75.5 square meters."

<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/Untitled1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images © vimg.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="871" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Untitled1.jpg?itok=wpCSV5Ii" title="Images © vimg.com.au" width="580"></a>

<a href="/buildings/panorama-101-tram-road-doncaster">101-105 Tram Road, Doncaster</a>

Hoardings are in place and a display suite fronting Doncaster &amp; Tram is midway through completion.  Gaining approval last year, 101-105 Tram Road is held by Dong Chen Trading and Investments according to the planning application.  With 201 dwellings consisting of a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments this pending development continues the measured flow of apartment stock into Doncaster Hill.

<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/Image8_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="339" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image8_15.jpg?itok=CEnIyqU0" title="Image © Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

<a href="/buildings/vanguard-781-807-dandenong-road-malvern-east">Vanguard - 807 Dandenong Road, Malvern East</a>

From recent approval to appearing on the developers website in rapid time, Vanguard is a benchmark tower for the Malvern East stretch of Dandenong Road.  Benchmark in both height and number of apartments; a comprehensive write-up of the project can be found <a href="/news/living-the-high-life-in-malvern-east" target="_blank">here</a> with vitals showing 314 apartments over 18 levels.

<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/Image9_9_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Fender Katsalidis"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="331" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image9_9_0.jpg?itok=4iDuRFCS" title="Image © Fender Katsalidis" width="580"></a>

The Saxon - Sydney Road, Brunswick 

Little is known of this pending apartment development aside from a number of sketches involving a multi-level complex, but if recent projects on and around Sydney Road are any example, The Saxon will sell handsomely in a very popular area.

<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/Image9_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © thesaxonbrunswick.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="353" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image9_14.jpg?itok=_lE0jmMu" title="Image © thesaxonbrunswick.com.au" width="580"></a>

<a href="/new-apartments/elysium-54-clarke-street-southbank">54 Clarke Street, Southbank</a>

Apartments.com.au hears that a May public sales launch is slated for this crystalline tower which has divided opinion owing to its position and height.  More artwork than tower, it will be interesting to see the pace of apartment sales given there are only 270 apartments within the near 240 metre structure.  Could this become a Melbourne icon? 

<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/Image1_50.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © 54clarke.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="486" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_50.jpg?itok=OibHsB6d" title="Image © 54clarke.com.au" width="580"></a>

<a href="/buildings/the-village-cheltenham-1228-nepean-highway-cheltenham">The Village Cheltenham - Park &amp; Nepean Highway, Cheltenham</a>

Developed by <a href="/developers/goldfield-group-0">Goldfields Living</a> and <a href="/developers/maple-development-group">Maple</a>, The Village Cheltenham is nearing its launch with one and two bedroom apartments on offer.  The sketch taken from the developments website is similar to imagery found on <a href="/architects/doig-architecture">Doig Architecture's</a> website, although Doig lists the project as fronting Railway Place.  Potentially one and the same or a future additional phase to this initial release which when completed will greatly solidify Cheltenham's Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

<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/Image11_10.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © thevillagecheltenham.com.au &amp; Doig Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="230" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image11_10.jpg?itok=OtSmmyU1" title="Image © thevillagecheltenham.com.au &amp; Doig Architecture" width="580"></a>

Reside Carlton - Swanston Street &gt; http://residecarlton.com.au/

Officially launching this weekend, Reside Carlton is the latest installment from Australand and Citta Property Group's joint venture which covers multiple Carlton sites.  "A distinctive Swanston Street entry lobby leads to a collection of 48 apartments across 5 levels. One, one plus study, two and three bedroom apartments offer everything you’d expect for life in the world’s most liveable city."

<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/building-exterior.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © residecarlton.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="338" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/building-exterior.jpg?itok=Q7hLbUs9" title="Image © residecarlton.com.au" width="580"></a>

<a href="/buildings/walter-280-neerim-road-carnegie">Walter Carnegie - Neerim Raod, Carnegie</a>

First impressions suggest developer <a href="/developers/bpm">BPM</a> are intent on bringing quality architecture to middle Melbourne.  Their website describes the project as "Walter, a striking new development in the heart of Carnegie, offers an enviable urban lifestyle.  Designed in collaboration with <a href="/architects/dko-architecture">DKO</a> architects, its progressive design offers an exciting new landmark that perfectly complements its surroundings.  This pioneering approach has forgone traditional architecture in favour of a simple yet strong and innovative building."

<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/Image2_26.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © bpmcorp.com.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="297" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image2_26.jpg?itok=RU-9Plc0" title="Image © bpmcorp.com.au" width="580"></a>

<a href="/buildings/eq-tower-127-abeckett-street-melbourne">Eq. Tower - 127 A'Beckett Street, Melbourne</a>

This planning application covered late last year by Apartments.com.au <a href="/news/the-fahrenheit-tower-a-closer-look-at-127-141-abeckett-street" target="_blank">here</a> now has a name - Eq. Tower.  Developer <a href="/developers/icd-property">ICD Property's</a> website states "Designs for this project feature extensive residential amenities for the 632 apartments. These include but are not limited to exclusive dining rooms and lounges, a gym, karaoke suites, pool and communal garden. Pre-sales will be launching shortly so keep an eye out for this exquisite development which has no equal."

<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/Image6_7_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="288" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image6_7_0.jpg?itok=aASR2k6C" title="Image © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

It's an interesting group of projects shown above distributed throughout metropolitan Melbourne, but really just a small fraction of projects relative to the apartment stock expected to be released throughout 2014.  Melbourne's insatiable appetite for apartments shows no sign of abating.
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The good oil - forthcoming apartment releases

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It's the peak of summer so no better opportunity to visit one of Melbourne's great gems.  Naked on the Sky is the relatively recent rooftop extension to the madly popular <a href="http://www.nakedforsatan.com.au/" target="_blank">Naked for Satan</a> bar and eatery which specialises in Pintxos and Vodka.

Originally the Moran &amp; Cato Merchants building, the structure at 277-285 Brunswick Street commenced construction during 1897 and remains one of Brunswick Street's premier buildings.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Img_2215_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Naked for Satan interior"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_2215_0.jpg?itok=0D4mZonZ" title="Naked for Satan interior" width="580"></a>

Whilst the externals have changed little for well over a century, the internals are a different story as seen above.  Dark and intriguing, the lower floors are worth the time taken to fully appreciate the fit-out, yet it's the rooftop terrace and associated views that steal the show.

The Naked for Satan website states the following of the rooftop:

As an extension of Naked for Satan, we bring you Naked in the Sky. An open terrace with an attached bar, lounge and restaurant. Naked in the Sky floats over Fitzroy with spectacular views of the city on one side and a full length vista of Brunswick Street on the other. You are beamed to the roof via an old lift shaft in the bowels of the building. Construction work has been carried out by the brilliant guys at Scalzo Constructions

And best of all, entry is free for all comers.  Well worth a visit during summer, but for those unable to, enjoy the image set below - click for a larger image.
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Naked in the Sky

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Tower cranes are always an excellent indicator as to the health of the local construction scene, and by extension the economy at large. Long gone are the gloomy days of the early 1990's when a tower crane was a rarity, replaced today by a brigade of new operators successfully carving out their niche fuelled by Melbourne's seemingly insatiable population growth.

Whereas four months ago we provided a static list of <a href="/news/the-cranes-have-it-a-melbourne-construction-overview" target="_blank">tower cranes operational in Melbourne</a>, included today is an active map highlighting tower crane locations throughout greater Melbourne.

<h2>Then and now</h2>

To understand today's state of play it's worth considering what has transpired post 2000. When the author began taking more than just a passing interest in Melbourne's development and construction scene, it was a different beast to what exists today. Boom Logistics, Verticon and Caelli Cranes were the dominant players of the day, erecting cranes on large build projects generally within a tight radius of the CBD.

While Caelli marches on, Vertigon fell by the wayside and Boom morphed into General Cranes. Joining these survivors though were a raft of new operators such as Active Crane Hire, Clark Cranes, MCG Cranes, Hudson Peat and Select Cranes who all required work for their fleet.

Perhaps the best example is that of Clark Cranes; call it luck or exceptional forecasting, but by concentrating on providing tower cranes for smaller scale project generally outside the CBD, the operator has successfully ridden the boom in suburban apartment living, something that was not plausible a decade ago.

<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/Upper-West-Side0094.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="View from the top. Image © Hudson Peat "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Upper-West-Side0094.jpg?itok=-qoiEUa8" title="View from the top. Image © Hudson Peat" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>View from the top. Image © Hudson Peat</figcaption></figure><h2>Far and wide</h2>

With a little help, we have devised the map below, providing a visual recognition of Melbourne's current large scale construction activity. Accurate to within one or two units, the map sees 84 tower cranes currently in use, with areas east of the CBD well represented.

Pascoe Vale, Ringwood, Hawthorn East and Doncaster East all sport projects between 3-5 levels, yet command tower cranes. These are relatively small projects but very much symptomatic of construction practices changing to meet the sustained surge toward higher density living in suburban Melbourne.

Where 70 cranes in the mid 2000's indicated boom times, it's now considered the norm. Of the 84 tower cranes currently operational, 70% are dedicated toward residential projects demonstrating how the attached dwelling sector has surged ahead in recent years.

<iframe height="480" src="https://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zqdl6A2iXb4Y.kULlyqp67wXU" width="580"></iframe>

<h2>What lies ahead</h2>

We thought it worthwhile to include an additional map forecasting expected tower cranes within the next quarter. That is, projects where site works have or are about to begin, facilitating the installation of a tower crane in the near term.

The map highlights the further spread of tower cranes throughout greater Melbourne, with Dandenong benefiting in particular. Often maligned, the envisaged 'Second CBD' should kick ahead with four tower cranes likley on Mosaic Apartments, 27 Scott Street and the new ATO complex at 11-13 Robinson Street in the near term.

<iframe height="480" src="https://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zqdl6A2iXb4Y.kCvQb5GjyV1E" width="580"></iframe>

While manufacturing in Victoria may be under the pump, it's worth noting that population growth is strong, apartment build starts are solid and commercial office requirements/construction remains fair. This in turn maintains momentum in one of the state's largest employment sectors; and not just held to the confines of the inner city.

As for when north and western areas of greater Melbourne will match the output of the south and east? That's near impossible to pinpoint although there's no lack of proposals ready to propel Footscray, Moonee Ponds and Sunshine onto the above maps.

By and large, Melbourne's construction sector remains resilient.
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February major construction activity mapped

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Time today for another installment of some of Melbourne's best street art. As the title suggests, a pocket of Collingwood bound by Johnston Street, Alexandra Parade, Wellington Street and Smith Street forms the boundary in which today's photo tour is located.
The area is also subject to a number of quality small and medium sized property developments, but for the purposes of today the subject matter is that which is visible for all to see.
From random skeletal figurines to totem poles to a 15 metre long mural in the most unusual of places, this area of Collingwood is supremely interesting. Enjoy.
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JAWS > Johnston Alexandra Wellington Smith < street relief

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Many readers would recall an article published early December titled '<a href="/news/are-200-metre-residential-towers-the-new-norm-for-melbourne" target="_blank">Are 200m residential towers the new norm for Melbourne?</a>' in which Apartments.com.au touched upon fourteen towers aiming to take their place in the city's burgeoning skyline.  From planning assessment to construction fourteen is a sizeable number, yet such is the dynamic state of Melbourne's apartment market coupled with the willingness of Asian-backed developers, Apartments.com.au can today unveil further proposals that would have a profound presence on Melbourne's silhouette if realised.

<a href="http://www.metier3.com.au/" target="_blank">Metier 3</a> architects design generally atypical buildings and 25-35 Power Street Southbank is no exception.  The firms first large-scale design will see the now vacant block transformed into a unique Melbourne built form landmark.  With a concave form accentuated by a swept wing facing Power Street, the 70 storey, 274 metre mixed-use complex has been conceived for recent site purchaser Freshwater No 6 Pty Ltd.

Another behemoth is also seeking approval with <a href="http://www.axfproperty.com.au/" target="_blank">AXF Group</a> championing the redevelopment of their plot at 180 Russell Street, seen below right.  Seeking to replace the 1965 Total Car Park complex, <a href="http://buchan.com.au/" target="_blank">Buchan Group</a> architects have created a shimmering 70 level, 271 metre mixed-use complex.  With impressive street frontages and a chameleon-like facade this development may encounter opposition from heritage groups expecting the retention of the existing Japanese Burtalist-style complex, which <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/BuildingandPlanning/Planning/heritageplanning/Pages/iHeritagesearchresults.aspx?heritageid=1829" target="_blank">carries a B grading in terms of heritage</a> according to Melbourne City council.

<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/Image4_26.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images © Metier 3 &amp; Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="354" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image4_26.jpg?itok=gHFUYPBX" title="Images © Metier 3 &amp; Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

No article could be written at the moment without the presence of <a href="http://elenbergfraser.com/">Elenberg Fraser</a>, with three additional entries complementing their existing 200 metre + designs &gt; <a href="/new-apartments/150-queen-street-melbourne">Tower Melbourne</a>, <a href="/news">Victoria Tower</a> and <a href="/buildings/eq-tower-127-abeckett-street-melbourne" target="_blank">127-141 A'Beckett Street</a>.  

Below left is the current version of 450 Elizabeth Street which at 61 levels and 197 metres is now subject to a revised planning application which would boost the floor count to 67 levels and height comfortably beyond 200 metres.  The jungle drums say site owner Sixth Grange Pty Ltd has formed a joint venture with an Asian-backed developer currently active within Melbourne's CBD and that a sales campaign will commence within months.

Inset sees the only image currently available of 250 La Trobe Street, directly opposite Melbourne Central.  The 50 and 78 level tower at approximately 250 metres in height is set to feature 500 plus residential apartments in a star shaped complex with opulent finishes. According to Elenberg Fraser principal Callum Fraser, “This development will offer one of the most generous provision of communal facilities to the residents and this will set the project apart from the rest in the market.” 

Last but not least is Elenberg Fraser's revised scheme for 380 Lonsdale Street. At the behest of bullish Singaporean developer Hiap Hoe, Elenberg Fraser have delivered a 50 and 60 level mixed-use complex with the taller northern tower nigh on if not over the 200 metre mark.  With Aloft Hotels waiting in the wings to operate the hotel component, 380 Lonsdale like the previous two is looking for a 2014 public sales launch.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image5_18.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Images © Elenberg Fraser"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="551" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_18.jpg?itok=CJLfaaAH" title="Images © Elenberg Fraser" width="580"></a>

So, a Melbourne Cup-sized field of 200 metre plus residential towers looms on Melbourne's horizon.

As outlined in December's piece, Asian developers operate beyond the stringent conditions that local developers face in financing their projects.  Additionally the majority of Asian developers are generally robust, well established, well financed property development firms overseas prior to inserting themselves in the local market.

Consequently the likelihood of most of the now 19 proposals of 200 metres or more coming to fruition is quite high.  With this in mind it's plausible to suggest this is a watershed time for Melbourne.  The size, character and feel of Melbourne will change markedly, along with its skyline, most likely triggering debate once the scope and size of these proposal in their entirety are realised by the wider public - although this is a topic for another day.  

Detailed articles on the above proposals/planning applications will follow in due course, beginning with 25-35 Power Street later this week.
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New proposals seek to join the 200m club

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Blink and you would have missed it!  Within weeks of this prime <a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a> development site at <a href="/new-apartments/38-freshwater-place-southbank">25-35 Power Street (also known as 38 Freshwater Place)</a> landing a new owner, a planning application landed in the lap of determining body <a href="http://www.dtpli.vic.gov.au/" target="_blank">DTPLI</a>.  Having the site purchase announced during October, new owner Freshwater No 6 Pty Ltd, a company located within the <a href="/new-apartments/sydney-nsw">Sydney</a> suburb of <a href="/new-apartments/rhodes-nsw-2138">Rhodes</a>, wasted no time in submitting detailed plans for a 70 storey mixed-use tower with an expected end value of approximately $400 million.

<a href="/new-apartments/docklands-vic-3008">Docklands</a>-based firm <a href="/architects/metier3">Metier 3</a> were commissioned for the design, located on a 3096 m2 site in an area already heavy with high-rise developments.  If approved 25-35 Power Street seeks to join four other 200 metre plus towers on this 'Southbank block of strength,' including <a href="/buildings/prima-tower-31-queensbridge-street-southbank">Prima Pearl</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/one-queensbridge-street-1-23-queensbridge-street-southbank" target="_blank">Queensbridge Tower</a> and 25 Queensbridge Street, although for reasons unbeknown the latter 236 metre approved tower was omitted from the diagram below.  Minimum distance to 25-35 Power Street's closest residential neighbour is 27.5 metres.

Surrounded by towers with regular, if not interestingly shaped floor plates, Metier 3 have chosen to design a tower with an irregular, tapering floor plate which they describe as:

<div class="rtejustify">"Taking the curvaceous two dimensional forms of those buildings both existing and proposed in close proximity and translating this into a true three dimensional form the building mass draws inspiration from the feminine form. With flowing curves and material patterning reminiscent of ballroom gowns and highly detailed junctions, the evoking comparison to Pavé jewellery, the built form will entail a sense of materiality and form in counterpoint to the more rigid forms adjacent."</div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image5_20.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Design inspiration and context. Image © Metier 3"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="409" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_20.jpg?itok=9q9JofdM" title="Design inspiration and context. Image © Metier 3" width="580"></a>

<div class="rtejustify">"My work is not about form follows function, but form follows beauty, or, even better, form follow feminine"</div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<div class="rtejustify">Quoting Oscar Niemeyer above, Metier 3's objective was to create a unique tower form and that box has been ticked.  What pleases the author to no end is the use of textured stone cladding over lower levels and also the tower's leading edge fronting Power Street.  Stone is a quality, timeless material that is exponentially better than painted precast panels, yet has fallen out of favour in <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a> seemingly.</div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<div class="rtejustify">Complementing the stone will be aluminium composite panels and metal trim finishes, while the dominant element will be the towers glazing which according to the materials schedule is verging on army green in appearance - it surely won't be missed in the skyline!</div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<div class="rtejustify">It's also refreshing to see a continuous tower form from the ground up where the podium is not clearly defined and tower not set back from Power Street, although one wonders whether DTPLI and Melbourne City Council will be suitable impressed. And what of the all important street activation where the public will predominantly interact with the complex?  Whilst the absolute street frontage is dominated by a Port Cochere entry servicing the hotel lobby and existing vehicle access to the adjoining office tower, plantings and an arched canopy seek to soften the street view.</div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<div class="rtejustify">The ground floor sees a public access arcade link Power Street to the existing internal garden and retail facilities of Freshwater Place, and Queensbridge Square beyond.</div>

<div class="rtejustify"> </div>

<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/Image1_49.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Expected view from Queensbridge Street. Image © Metier 3"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1575" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image1_49.jpg?itok=M92gmQ6v" title="Expected view from Queensbridge Street. Image © Metier 3" width="580"></a>

With one basement level car park, ground floor as mentioned hosts seven separate retail spaces fronting the arcade, in addition to the expected hotel/apartments lobbies and ancillary services such as loading etc.  Mezzanine floor also hosts four retail spaces for a total of 1,300 m2.  With the proceeding five levels of podium car parking, a total of 240 vehicles and 146 bicycles are accommodated.

178 one and two-bedroom boutique apartments cover the first ten inhabitable floors, with the assumption that these are short stay and/or serviced apartments. Thereafter 32 levels of traditional apartments follow with 318 in total spread between 82 one, 156 two and 80 three bedroom options - 80 three bedders at between 120-150 square metres each equates to 25% of total traditional apartment offerings.  

This is the highest percentile of three bedroom apartments in any development covered by Apartments.com.au and speaks toward the intended quality/target market for this development.

Proceeding these will be an entire commercial floor containing 21 office suites, a hotel sky lobby and back of house services located on level 51 while dual floors covering conference, restaurant and function facilities follow.  15 hotel floors absorb levels 54-68 with the typical hotel floor containing 24 single bed dwellings, while hotel facilities line the remaining two floors which include a sky bar and pool the best part of 260 metres above ground.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Image5_19.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cross section and uses. Image © Metier 3"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="834" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image5_19.jpg?itok=Aab_PVfN" title="Cross section and uses. Image © Metier 3" width="580"></a>

The associated traffic report prepared by <a href="http://www.gta.com.au/home.aspx" target="_blank">GTA Consultants</a> shows 480 car spaces within the development meets statutory requirements, whilst also remaining under the total 2,300 car park threshold for the entire Freshwater site.  Also noted is the failure of 146 bicycle spaces in meeting statutory requirements, with a minimum 171 spaces required.

Quoting the report, "The site is expected to generate up to 190 and 230 vehicle movements in the AM and PM peak hours respectively.  There is adequate capacity in the surrounding road network to cater for the traffic generated by the proposed development."  Adequate capacity there may be for 25-35 Power Street, but the sheer number of proposed towers in Southbank and the traffic they would generate if realised would surely make Southbank an 'interesting' place to navigate in a decade's time.

Overall a total of 846 separate dwellings within 25-35 Power Street would not only see it become one of Melbourne's tallest buildings, but likely the densest liveable structure in Melbourne; a planning decision is not expected for some months.
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Not so straight forward > 25-35 Power Street, Southbank

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Before you foster grand plans of outdoing Homer Simpson's "Persephone" or adding a Wet and Wild atop the upcoming Terminal 4, Australia Pacific Airports Corporation Pty Ltd (APAC) last week released a statement calling for public design input into the finer grain aspects of the new terminal which will house Melbourne's two low-cost airlines. It reads as follows:
We're seeking feedback on the design of its new domestic terminal.  Construction is underway on the new Terminal 4, which will be home to growing low-cost airlines Jetstar and Tigerair. A survey has been compiled based on a fly-through animation of the new Terminal 4, and we're seeking input from the general public and a range of stakeholders. Frequent Melbourne Airport passengers and visitors, aviation enthusiasts and anyone interested in the development of the new terminal are invited to participate in the survey. 
Survey respondents are asked their opinion on the look and feel of the design, as well as questions around how they would like to spend time while waiting to depart or visitors to arrive. Melbourne Airport will monitor the survey site regularly for useful feedback on the design of the new terminal, which will be updated as progress continues.
Whilst our article title may be slightly facetious, it's a wise move on APAC's behalf to involve public feedback where possible given the bare bones (if not shambolic) nature of the current low-cost facility.  
Designed by <a href="http://www.hassellstudio.com/" target="_blank">Hassell</a>, Melbourne Airport's new southern terminal precinct will be delivered by <a href="http://www.leighton.com.au/" target="_blank">Leighton Holdings</a> with a construction contract valued at $370 million. Covering 20,000 square metres, the initial phase now under construction will be capable of handing 10 million passengers per annum upon completion, doubling in capacity if and when expansion plans are enacted upon.
Impressive enough yet what would be a worthwhile addition to Melbourne Airport's Terminal 4 given the complex's design for the most is set in stone? Reinventing the wheel and suggesting truly ground breaking ideas would be a pointless exercise given APAC's penchant for function over form, as evidenced by the 1970's international terminal facade still greeting passengers upon their arrival.  
It's a domestic terminal with minimal layover times therefore the need for a terminal user to relax or be stimulated for a few hours maximum is paramount; making the terminal a passenger experience rather than a choir would be ideal, therefore:
<ul>
<li class="rtejustify">
		Incorporate a well sized, low maintenance, functional rooftop garden akin to Freshwater Place Southbank's (below right) which would double as a viewing platform where users could relax, have a drink or meal, and take in sweeping views of the aircraft before them to the CBD beyond.  Introducing a much more diverse material palette - brick pavers, timber, high quality concrete finishes etc. </li>
	<li class="rtejustify">
		Mimic <a href="http://www.a-r-m.com.au/projects_MelbCentral" target="_blank">Melbourne Central's rejuvenated retail precinct</a> or QV's food hall with a multi-level retail and service dominated layout - give users a high quality offering and those excruciating one to three hours of dead time will be no more.</li>
	<li class="rtejustify">
		Have institutions such as Melbourne Zoo, Melbourne Aquarium, Scienceworks, Melbourne Museum or the NGV sponsor mini exhibits where columns (not necessarily structural) such as that below left are placed within the terminal acting as aquariums, displays or reptile/insect exhibits - keep the kids occupied whilst also exposing Melbourne's tourist attractions at the first point of contact for most travelers.</li>
	<li class="rtejustify">
		Paraphrasing this article '<a href="http://www.futuretravelexperience.com/2013/10/new-technology-influencing-design-future-airport/" target="_blank">How new technology is influencing the design of the future</a>,' implement the technologies that passengers find highly useful to allow their terminal experience to be enjoyable, rather than an obstacle.</li>
</ul>
<img alt="" height="395" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/pictures/article-images/Image1_47.jpg" title="Images courtesy Yelp &amp; Fytogreen" width="1073">
Why stop there!  The oversized car park masquerading as a Ground Transportation Hub is abysmal if the below render is anywhere near accurate in its depiction.  Surely APAC which rakes in stupendously high revenues from car parking fees can loosen the purse ever so slightly more and allow those charged with designing the complex to actually design?  
A search of 'car park facades' in Google Images yields both impressive and intriguing.  The array of facade materials and the technologies backing those facades is impressive and makes the below render look quite pathetic in the process.
The ideal outcome for the Ground Transportation Hub - a functional, efficient facility that has minimal ongoing maintenance costs whilst also being aesthetically pleasing given it is a massive facility not easily missed.
<img alt="" height="600" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/pictures/article-images/MLS_06.jpg" title="Potentially average. Image © Gareth Servant" width="1442">
The solution - <a href="http://archrecord.construction.com/features/designvanguard/2013/1312-JOHO-Architecture-slideshow.asp?slide=2" target="_blank">Herma Parking Building</a> by JOHO Architecture.  Located in Seoul, the impressive structure is both functional and daring in its design.  Rather than the above eyesore, a clad of polycarbonate and stainless steel panels punctuated by diagrid metal vents (below) offers a slightly more expensive, immeasurably more impressive design outcome with essentially no long term maintenance costs due to the materials used.
Better yet, what chances of a mixed use development where a hotel or admin/office space is placed atop the car park in akin to this mixed-use <a href="http://www.big.dk/#projects-mtn" target="_blank">Bjarke Ingles Group</a> project? Its been done with the opposing Melbourne Airport Car Park &amp; PARKROYAL, why not once more?
<img alt="" height="991" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/pictures/article-images/Image3_26.jpg" title="Herma parking centre. Images courtesy Architectural Record" width="921">
See the link below to Melbourne Airport's webpage inviting feedback and should you have any suggestions we'd love to hear them as well via the comment section below.
http://melbourneairport.com.au/News-Events/Listing/Overview/have-your-say-on-our-new-terminal.html#sthash.MCBWzTQk.dpuf
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Melbourne Airport says design your own terminal

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Currently before Melbourne City Council is a plan to create a weekly market with ACCA's forecourt nominated as the preferred site.  Supported by marketing/communications firm <a href="http://communicado.com.au/index">Communicado</a> and design studio <a href="http://www.racket.net.au/" target="_blank">Racket</a>, the weekly event will be known as <a href="http://theupmarket.com.au/" target="_blank">The Upmarket</a>.
<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/ACCA.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image courtesy Wikipedia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="202" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ACCA.jpg?itok=yQ1vpj_H" title="Image courtesy Wikipedia" width="580"></a>
The marketing spiel via the events website reads as follows:
Reinventing Melbourne's weekly market scene forever, creating a permanent hub for weekly design.  The Upmarket is a carefully curated &amp; truly local Melbourne design market.
The Upmarket recognises true talent and offers a platform for unique, innovative and emerging designers, artists, artisans &amp; musicians to showcase fine wares, made here and elsewhere.
Visitors can buy direct from inspired &amp; creative talent, whilst sipping on great coffee, eating gorgeous treats and enjoying the lively atmosphere.  A local, relaxed and vibrant feel with great tunes, entertainment for kids and something for everyone.  The Upmarket is lively, fun and uniquely Melbourne.
After ridding myself of the sudden urge to sip coffee and hug every person within the vicinity whilst extolling the virtues of Melbourne, The Upmarket does seem to be a worthwhile initiative for a number of reasons.
Southbank has been derided seemingly forever and a day as lacking general street level character - beyond the banks of the Yarra little effort has been vested into humanising the public realm with the <a href="http://blog.thatsmelbourne.com.au/blog/2012/07/13/boyds-bold-future-in-southbank/" target="_blank">JH Boyd School redevelopment</a> a notable exception.  In this regard any push to bring pedestrian activity to Southbank is a plus.
Sustainability is key to The Upmarket, with the promoters pushing green transport options.  In addition to an iPhone app tracking local transport links to and from the site, incentives will be on offer for those who catch public transport or cycle.  These include market offers, discounts and even a bike valet service - drawing people to Southbank without bringing additional vehicles into the area is a worthwhile pursuit.
ACCA itself is a prime example of Southbank's hostile street environment; granted ACCA's facade serves its purpose and would be otherwise compromised if altered, but it is externally inactive and features a large forecourt with only the 'Yellow Peril' as a focal point, yeah....!  Activating the forecourt, if only on Saturdays, helps to maintain and more importantly draw in additional people to the area.  The majority of Southbank foot trips would be from apartment door to CBD, anything reversing this trend is a bonus.  With 80 stalls trading regardless of weather, The Upmarket may well turn the area into a hub of human activity from 7am to 6pm over an otherwise quiet weekend.
<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/Image11_9.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="374" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image11_9.jpg?itok=-H8GdWgT" title="Image © Francis-Jones Morehen Thorp" width="580"></a>
Small step The Upmarket may be in correcting Southbank's street level misfortunes, but it would have been helped no end if the proposed redevelopment of Sturt Street materialised.  Floated simultaneously with the redevelopment of Hamer Hall, the rejuvenation of Sturt Street as a pedestrian friendly spine through the arts precinct would have acted as a funnel. The above option conceived by <a href="http://www.fjmt.com.au/projects/projects_scpr" target="_blank">FJMT</a>  would have channeled foot traffic from Melbourne's heart via a grand thoroughfare down Sturt Street and into arguably Melbourne's cultural heart.  
Ultimately the above was not to be but The Upmarket may succeed where other Southbank initiatives have failed - here's hoping!
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Southbank to benefit from a weekly market?

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During the latter months of 2013 the constant hum of demolition and bulk excavation emanated from behind the walls of Pentridge Prison, once Melbourne's premier correctional facility.  Nothing particularly out of the ordinary given the "Bluestone College's" slow transformation into a medium to high density residential enclave.  Yet the latest planning application for the site's northern bounds seeks to demolish a slice of Melbourne's disreputable history.

Second only to the comparatively short lived and brutal Jika Jika unit, the notorious H division within Pentridge was an area of high security where prisoners were kept as a form of discipline or held for their own protection.  Such was the harshness of H division, the likes of Mark Brandon "Chopper" Reed found it fit to cut his ears off in order to escape the wing during the late 1970's, if only temporarily.

Fast forward to present and State planning body DTPLI is considering the merits of a planning application which seeks to demolish H division and replace it in part with dual seven level apartments buildings.  With plans currently displayed under DTPLI's <a href="http://www.dpcd.vic.gov.au/heritage/permits/currently-advertised-permits#boyd" target="_blank">heritage</a> page, those in charge must now determine whether this notorious piece of Melbourne's history will disappear forever. 

<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/Image6_16.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Expected demolition plans. Image © PRO-ARK"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" height="424" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image6_16.jpg?itok=H4r2HZUn" title="Expected demolition plans. Image © PRO-ARK" width="702"></a>

Architecture firm PRO-ARK has devised the scheme designated <a href="/developments/coburg-vic-3058">1 Champ Street</a> on behalf of <a href="/developers/shayher-group" target="_blank">Shayher Group</a> (itself an affiliate to Taiwanese conglomerate Pau Jar Group), which has a number of high profile developments within Australia including the impressive <a href="/developments/brisbane-city-qld-4000">300 George Street</a> development in Brisbane. Within the Pentridge development, 46 apartments are expected over seven level 'east' and 'west' apartment blocks.

Of the 46 dwellings, 41 will carry two bedrooms while the remainder will consist of three bedrooms, with apartment sizes ranging between 73 square metres and 114 square metres - and large balconies to boot.  Somewhat impressive is the development teams stance that no single bedroom dwellings be included with the development; a rarity in contemporary apartment developments.  This may be explained away to a degree by the immediate site surrounds where large, multi-bedroom dwellings hold sway whilst in the wider context Pentridge's surrounds are dominated by older, family dwellings where many of Melbourne's early migrants still reside.

Overall the development if delivered will add an extra 46 cars to the area by the way of an underground car park.  In addition 28 bicycle spaces are provided for with 3 set aside for visitors.

<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/Image7_22.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artists 3D perspective of the intended development. Image © PRO-ARK"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" height="414" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image7_22.jpg?itok=VOhYxwzZ" title="Artists 3D perspective of the intended development. Image © PRO-ARK" width="702"></a>

New development plans the above may be, but they are certainly not the first to grace Pentridge's northern precinct aka Pentridge Piazza.  A far back as a decade ago a sixteen level apartment block was slated for the corner site directly north of 1 Champ Street, which would have featured a podium art piece sculpted to resemble the mask of Ned Kelly.

Subsequently, now failed developer Valad Property Group put to market Air at Pentridge apartments as the first public offering if its 6.5 hectare development site.  Featuring 259 apartments in a scheme designed by <a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the 18 level tower (seen below left) was to be the first of a number of skyscrapers for the site.  With its fractal facade Air at Pentridge was to feature a host of environmental initiatives such as rainwater harvesting, solar hot water and dual wind turbines located at the towers peak, whilst also setting new benchmarks for apartments living in the City's north. 

Saddled with debt, Valad consequently listed the site for sale during 2011 and in the process put to rest notions of a grand master-planned precinct high in amenity and dotted with cafe/retail spaces.

<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/Image9_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="What could have been? Images © Rothe Lowman &amp; NH Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" height="403" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/Image9_15.jpg?itok=UsdPx4Qe" title="What could have been? Images © Rothe Lowman &amp; NH Architecture" width="702"></a>

In submitting their evidence for 1 Champ Street, heritage architecture and urban design firm <a href="http://bryceraworth.com.au/" target="_blank">Bryce Raworth</a> explains that H division amongst other existing buildings is of primary significance according to the Pentridge Conservation Management Plan, yet "given the constraints posed by the way the highly significant early buildings are located across the site, there is little option but for part of Road A (service road) to run through the eastern portion of H Division."  Bryce Raworth summarises the loss of H division with the following, "Although it will result in a substantial and readily appreciable change to the character and appearance of the place, it will also provide an opportunity for the revitalisation of the historic building stock and for conservation works that are, in many instances, long overdue."

The application shows Shayher Group controls the current plot under planning assessment, yet for the sake of the overall Pentridge development one hopes that whoever the owns the balance is prepared to action plans to redevelop the site which has been dormant for the best part of 17 years.

Submissions regarding 1 Champ Street were due New Yars Day, with a decision on awarding planning approval or otherwise to follow in coming months.

 
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H division likely to go as Pentridge's rebirth gathers momentum

The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower rising to 67.9 metres AHD. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

The application is being assessed under Clause 53.23, a planning pathway reserved for large-scale housing projects with an affordable housing contribution. Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The site sits opposite Fawkner Park and within walking distance of Albert Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Shrine of Remembrance and the future Anzac Station. The surrounding corridor has increasingly shifted toward high-density residential development, with a mix of luxury apartment projects and office redevelopments reshaping the southern end of St Kilda Road.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

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>

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

Mark Baljak

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