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Melbourne's west may not be the epicentre of commercial development, but a trickle of projects is casting a light on the areas potential for future commercial growth.

The recent announcement that Target Australia will move its national headquarters to Williams Landing serves to bolster the west's profile, whilst also providing developer Cedar Woods with a premium tenant for their masterplanned development.

Located opposite Williams Landing station, designed by Gray Puksand and with Hacer on board as builder, the new 8 level commercial development is chasing an A Grade rating from the Property Council of Australia. It's 3,000sqm floor plates will enable Target departments to be connected, encouraging interaction and collaboration between all areas of the company.

Gray Puksand also have the design reigns over the other noteworthy commercial project in this span of Melbourne, namely VicRoads' new Sunshine offices.

<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/image129_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Target's new headquarters. Image: Gray Puksand"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image129_1.jpg?itok=ix_VbqY4" title="Target's new headquarters. Image: Gray Puksand" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Target's new headquarters. Image: Gray Puksand</figcaption></figure>The Williams Landing project which falls within a Priority Development Zone as mandated by the Victorian Government, is set to attract 850 new employees to the area.

At the time of the announcement, Cedar Woods COO Nathan Blackburne outlined what the Target deal means to the west:

<blockquote>
Target’s move to Williams Landing signifies the increasing breadth and depth of economic activity occurring in Melbourne’s western growth corridor and reinforces Williams Landing’s appeal as an attractive and growing commercial centre. We anticipate Target’s move will stimulate interest from other leading businesses seeking to base themselves at Williams Landing.
</blockquote>

Valued at $37 million and spanning 12,600 square metres, the new 8 level slab on ground commercial building also includes 2 retail tenancies and parking for 466 vehicles. Robert Puksand, Founding Partner at Gray Puksand describes the splay of the building relative to its corner location:

<blockquote>
A lively façade design creates a pedestrian friendly backdrop to the external piazza created on the corner. A multi-coloured, dynamic façade design shrouds the building to create a landmark statement within the precinct.
</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/image122_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sunshine's new VicRoads office is rapidly taking shape. Image: ABD Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image122_1.jpg?itok=tYlVVMaY" title="Sunshine's new VicRoads office is rapidly taking shape. Image: ABD Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Sunshine's new VicRoads office is rapidly taking shape. Image: ABD Group</figcaption></figure>Form and colour are also on show in Sunshine as builder ABD Group pushes toward structural completion of the Withers Street development. The new VicRoads building spans 7 levels and includes ground level retail.

Both projects fall within identified nodes for future development and are in their own way vanguard projects for their respective areas.

Whilst the VicRoads projects falls within the greater Sunshine National Employment and Innovation Cluster, Target's new headquarters is within a Priority Development Zone adjacent to the East Werribee Employment Precinct which itself is expected to create another 58,000 jobs.

<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/image223.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="VicRoads is expanding i Sunshine. Image: Gray Puksand"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image223.jpg?itok=YBT4tLPh" title="VicRoads is expanding i Sunshine. Image: Gray Puksand" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>VicRoads is expanding in Sunshine. Image: Gray Puksand</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Target's Williams Landing HQ a boon for the west's commercial prospects

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Another week and another student accommodation tower enters the Apartments.com.au Project Database.

Following on from a string of fresh projects seeking their place in the expanding sector, GSA Australia's intentions for a Queensberry Street plot are the latest to be unveiled. 198-208 Queensberry Street is GSA Australia's third current student housing project, after <a href="/new-apartments/205-223-pelham-street-carlton">205-233 Pelham Street</a> and <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">684-688 Elizabeth Street</a>.

The work of DKO Architecture, the Queensberry project involves 229 beds within 136 apartments. 

On a 546sqm corner plot, the tower spans 14 levels and draws heavily upon two fellow DKO Architecture projects. Above the retained low-rise facade, the glazed section references their <a href="http://www.dko.com.au/cms_subcat_14/marina-tower-docklands-melbourne">Marina Tower</a> project, whilst precast elements closely resemble the pattern across DKO Architecture's <a href="http://www.dko.com.au/cms_subcat_14/the-metropolitan-melbourne">Metropolitan</a> design.

198-208 Queensberry Street and 684-688 Elizabeth Street are likely to follow the Pelham Street example by way of being managed by The Student Housing Company.

<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/image7_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="GSA Australia's latest play within the student market. Planning image: DKO Architecture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="405" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_13.jpg?itok=zypFfzRI" title="GSA Australia's latest play within the student market. Planning image: DKO Architecture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>GSA Australia's latest play within the student market. Planning image: DKO Architecture</figcaption></figure>Conversely, a student tower slated for Caulfield East has come unstuck during planning.

Applicant Derby Road Developments Pty Ltd late last year submitted plans for a substantial 18-storey student accommodation building at 9-13 Derby Road. 158 student units, 15 car parking spaces, 51 bicycle parking spaces, a 150sqm retail premises/shop fronting Derby Road and communal facilities across levels one and five were envisaged.

Earlier this month Glen Eira chose to issue a Notice of Refusal for the tower which falls within the Phoenix Precinct adjoining Monash University.

Issues cited with the proposal include its inability "to respond to the fine grain rhythm and heritage character along Derby Road as the scale and form of the podium and tower are inconsistent with the scale and form of existing buildings in the Derby Road Heritage Overlay Area. The building proposed to be partially demolished is identified as a contributory building in this heritage area. Council discourages the demolition of Contributory buildings in heritage areas."

<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/image9_13.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Derby Road may not see this 18 level tower become reality. Planning image: Interlandi Mantesso Archtects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="378" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image9_13.jpg?itok=fxVH8YA6" title="Derby Road may not see this 18 level tower become reality. Planning image: Interlandi Mantesso Archtects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Derby Road may not see this 18 level tower. Planning image: Interlandi Mantesso Architects</figcaption></figure>The student accommodation sector is awash with news as developers and institutional investors seek to meet the shortfall in demand for the housing typology.

Earlier this month Apartments.com.au outlined Cedar Pacific's <a href="/news/inter-war-and-student-to-the-core-another-whopping-student-accommodation-project-unveiled">intentions for 123-135 Bouverie Street</a>, which include a further 596 rooms within the Nettleton Tribe-designed tower. In close proximity to 198-208 Queensberry Street, Icon Construction has begun works on Urbanest's 599 Swanston Street.

That project consists of a new 21-storey tower incorporating 583 student beds within a vertically bladed bronze facade.

Also earlier this month Scape Student Living <a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/scape-will-build-a-60storey-uni-student-residence-in-melbournes-cbd-20170427-gvtk0e">outlined plans</a> for a $300 million 60-storey tower overlooking RMIT University. The proposal includes 740 student beds, 146 city living units and a substantial amount of commercial space within the mixed-use 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/231_urbanest-2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="599 Swanston Street. Image: Icon Construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="486" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/231_urbanest-2.jpg?itok=3RqDDTH9" title="599 Swanston Street. Image: Icon Construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>599 Swanston Street. Image: Icon Construction</figcaption></figure>
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The student living drive churns out an additional tower, but provides no luck for another

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The Planning Minister's office has granted approval for a major tower within the former Pentridge site that will add near on 200 apartments to the emerging precinct.

Dubbed Air Apartments, the tower at 21 Pentridge Boulevard carries the name of a formerly approved Rothelowman-designed residential tower for the same plot. In approving the current version, the State Government has worked within the expectations of the existing site masterplan, despite the tower sparking '<a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/outrage-at-19-storey-apartment-plan-for-former-pentridge-prison-20151227-glve9r">outrage</a>' in the local community in recent times.

The current Air Apartments design created by Particular works roughly to the same dimensions of the now superseded scheme that held approval for some years prior to yesterday's announcement.

National Trust Victoria <a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/north-west/national-trust-victoria-concerned-air-apartments-could-compromise-pentridge-prisons-conservation/news-story/2c78b3a17008fa8749b66df723a5f8d2">raised concerns</a> over the size of the tower, although Heritage Victoria saw fit to give the nod to the tower during the approvals process.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image2_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of Air Apartments"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="298" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2_12.jpg?itok=ZUB4WBnU" title="Artist's impression of Air Apartments" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of Air Apartments</figcaption></figure>Backed by developer Shayher Group, Air Apartments in somewhat of an oddity will also include car parking for residents of adjoining buildings. 57 car parks are allocated to residents of existing residences, namely the Quartermaster Building and the Industry Lane townhouses.

Whether this is an imposed requirement in order to gain the Air Apartments permit remains unclear, but it's certainly a departure from the norm and contrary to a statement provided by Shayher Group project spokesman Anthony Goh yesterday.

<blockquote>
A site like Pentridge not only requires high density housing to ensure its economic viability in the long term, but it is also suitable for a higher density development due to its close proximity to public transport infrastructure, shops and schools, thereby reducing the number of cars on our roads and encouraging residents to walk to nearby facilities.
</blockquote>

Parking anomalies aside, Anthony Goh believes Air Apartments will go along way to providing housing diversity within the precinct:

<blockquote>
This building is a part of our vision to create a new urban village within the iconic walls of Pentridge, attracting locals who are keen to get on the property ladder and downsizers and those who wish to live in the centre of it all - with a Palace Cinema, cafes, restaurants and retail stores right on their doorstep.

The apartment mix responds to market trends for a diverse and integrated approach to housing types needed in the Coburg area. Its residents will be an important part of the site's future, energising this amazing location for many years to come.
</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/image4_15.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Precinct massing as per the Pentridge Coburg Masterplan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="321" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_15.jpg?itok=HHC81ef_" title="Precinct massing as per the Pentridge Coburg Masterplan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Precinct massing as per the Pentridge Coburg Masterplan</figcaption></figure>Air Apartments joins <a href="/developments/coburg-vic-3058">1 Champ Street</a> and what is known as Building 9 as Shayher Group's most immediate projects within the larger Pentridge Coburg precinct.

1 Champ Street or Building 16 within the <a href="http://pentridgecoburg.com.au/masterplan/">masterplan</a> is expected to house 52 residential apartments and the balance of the 114 Adina Hotel suites slated within the build. Adina suites will also be located within with the historic and soon to be converted B Division building.

At 19 levels, the Cox Architecture-designed tower is expected to span 64 metres and include a range of amenities across lower levels.

Building 9, on the other hand, is a low-rise building arranged in an arcade-style format. It will include an array of retail outlets, restaurants, and a state-of-the-art Palace Cinemas complex.

<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/2_5.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The expected Palace Cinemas complex"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="407" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/2_5.jpg?itok=sdwBtLjd" title="The expected Palace Cinemas complex" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The expected Palace Cinemas complex</figcaption></figure>
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A breath of fresh Air for Pentridge in Coburg

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The humble nursery continues to provide developers with sizeable redevelopment opportunities across Melbourne.

Latest to the public eye is the former Going, Going Green nursery within Hawthorn which has been christened Sierra. The apartment development on the corner at Burwood Road and Drill Street is the latest release by expanding Doncaster East-based developer JD Group.

Having secured the site reportedly for $30 million, JD Group have created a new purpose for the roughly 7,000sqm site.

<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/image6_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of a Sierra Hawthorn interior. Image: JD Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_14.jpg?itok=qh9DujPm" title="Artist's impression of a Sierra Hawthorn interior. Image: JD Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of a Sierra Hawthorn interior. Image: JD Group</figcaption></figure>Architecturally the building has been described as a dynamic architectural statement which "ventures beyond pure aesthetics to create a tremendous sense of space via its unique ‘S’ shaped configuration. A staggered roof line and shimmering exterior finishes present a building that blends seamlessly with its surrounds."

"Nestled within the building’s elegant curves sit two, large landscaped courtyards that deliver intrigue and a broad outlook by departing from traditional urban clichés."

Internally, JD Group have elected to provide one, two and three-bedroom configurations, with four- bedroom terrace homes also on offer.

<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/image4_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Alexa Essendon is well into construction"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="280" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image4_14.jpg?itok=A2440Gqt" title="Alexa Essendon is well into construction" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Alexa Essendon is well into construction</figcaption></figure>As Sierra gears up for its sales launch, another example of a nursery transitioning into a major apartment development is nearing construction completion in Essendon.

The former Essendon Plant Farm/Direct Plants centre across 1048-1060 Mount Alexander Road was purchased by Accord Property Group, and now hosts Alexa. 95 apartments and a ground floor retail tenancy are set across the 2,003sqm land holding. 

Designed by ClarkeHopkinsClarke, the building spans seven storeys above a double level basement. Buildcorp Commercial are applying the finishing touches to the building, which also has frontage to Allison Park.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image2rlc.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Amenities space within the Warrigal Road development. Planning image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="324" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image2rlc.jpg?itok=x2o9cv-c" title="Amenities space within the Warrigal Road development. Planning image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Amenities space within the Warrigal Road development. Planning image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>Also in the wings is 695 Warrigal Road, Chadstone which as of last month gained a Notice of Decision to Grant a Planning Permit. The proponents for the former Flower Power Garden Centre are all but assured in their push to realise a major residential redevelopment for the site.

Entity Chadstone Investments Pty Ltd are behind the development application. Initially seeking heights of up to 11 storeys, City of Monash have decreed that the development be allowed to proceed with two seven storey apartment buildings, 11 standalone townhouses within a three storey building, a child care centre, supermarket and additional retail tenancies.

Spanning 50,821sqm, part of the site is used as a homemaker centre, with the development to be located across the former plant nursery portion of the massive land holding.

<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/image3rlc.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Townhouses fronting Collins Street form part of the development. Planning image: Rothelowman"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="319" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image3rlc.jpg?itok=3nsury4W" title="Townhouses fronting Collins Street form part of the development. Planning image: Rothelowman" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Townhouses fronting Collins Street form part of the development. Planning image: Rothelowman</figcaption></figure>
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A green thumb's loss the developer's gain

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Monash University's Clayton campus will receive yet another noteworthy academic building, this time by way of the new Monash Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building (BLTB)

Joining a string of highly meritorious contemporary designs across the campus, BLTB is another design feather in the cap of Monash's Clayton campus which has undergone intensive redevelopment over the past five years. Denton Corker Marshall has created the new building which is valued in excess of $100 million.

Research Way's old Pharmacology building has been demolished as the process to select a builder continues. Eventually, BLTB will cater for undergraduate students studying biomedical sciences. 

<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/image168_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The new Monash Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building. Images: DCM"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="255" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image168_0.jpg?itok=tE0OSf3S" title="The new Monash Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building. Images: DCM" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The new Monash Biomedical Learning and Teaching Building. Images: DCM</figcaption></figure>Spanning 10,000sqm of new built form, BLTB's facade will carry a distinctive glazing to its eastern and western flanks.

<blockquote>
The new building incorporates an innovative pedagogical solution in four Flexi Labs.  The ‘L’ shaped labs wrap around a central glazed satellite prep area providing smaller scaled, more personable lab space for cohorts of 60, 120 or interlinked space for up to 240 students, visually connected as one. 

This enables teaching and learning of multiple subjects concurrently and independently in a uniquely Monash solution.

The facility also includes a 1,200sqm informal Learning Hub accommodating 440 students.  With an average of 90 informal learning seats per floor, the Hub provides spaces for quiet, self-directed learning as well as, larger, more active group settings.
<cite>Denton Corker Marshall</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/plaza-1_low-res.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Monash Learning and Teaching Building. Image: Multiplex"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/plaza-1_low-res.jpg?itok=i_qDFCO1" title="The Monash Learning and Teaching Building. Image: Multiplex" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Monash Learning and Teaching Building. Image: Multiplex</figcaption></figure>BLTB is the latest in Monash University's capital expenditure program that has seen vast swathes of the Clayton campus redeveloped in recent years. Major builds delivered include six separate student housing buildings, New Horizons, the Green Chemical Futures building, The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts and the Learning and Teaching Building.

The latter duo is currently under construction, with the Learning and Teaching Building targeting a Green Building Council of Australia’s ‘5-star As-Built’ rating.

Designed by John Wardle Architects, it includes more than 60 formal and informal learning and teaching spaces set above an extensive basement car park and also delivers a new transport interchange and frontage to Wellington Road.

Likely to grace the Clayton campus next is a new Technology Education Building, with Grimshaw Architects reportedly involved with the design.

<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/image169_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Chemical futures, student residences &amp; New Horizons. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="545" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image169_0.jpg?itok=rnLLvdgT" title="Chemical futures, student residences &amp; New Horizons. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Green Chemical Futures, student residences &amp; New Horizons.</figcaption></figure>
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Monash Clayton facilitates another grand design gesture

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May 2017 has thus far brought with it a string of cold mornings and a rash of news relating to various developments across Melbourne's CBD.

On the planning front, VCAT have delivered good news to interests seeking to turn the historic Phillips Shirts building at 274-278 Little Lonsdale Street into a substantial tower. Originally planned as a 59-storey residential tower, the design has been substantially clipped to approximately 100 metres in height or 30 levels.

278 Little Lonsdale Pty Ltd is the entity behind the tower which has now been approved for hotel use. Brady Group are the controlling force behind the project, perhaps suggesting that 274-278 Little Lonsdale Street may be developed under the Brady Hotels banner, in a similar move to what the developer has in store for 109-111 Little Lonsdale Street.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image135_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A new Exhibition Street perspective."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="259" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image135_3.jpg?itok=XkwCc9Op" title="A new Exhibition Street perspective." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A new Exhibition Street perspective.</figcaption></figure>Also widely reported last week is the news that Malaysia's SP Setia have crucially been given the green light from City of Melbourne to pursue redevelopment of 288-326 Exhibition Street. Under the plans dual towers approaching the height of Rialto will be constructed, with unconfirmed whispers that Shangri-La assume control over the development's 500 hotel suites.

Final approval rests with Planning Minister Richard Wynne.

Continuing the hotel theme is news of construction tenders being released for a new Vivo Hotel at 33-35 King Street. Originally approved for 120 apartments across 29 levels, developer BPM have reworked the scheme after purchasing the site, with Elenberg Fraser reportedly installed as the architect of choice.

In projects sales news, 555 Collins Street is due to launch shortly with the project's display suite freshly complete. Replacing a drab existing onsite office building, the Bates Smart-designed tower will stand 47 levels upon completion.

<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/image162.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="555 Collins Street's envisaged pool deck and Paragon Apartments "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="271" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image162.jpg?itok=hpI9chHK" title="555 Collins Street's envisaged pool deck and Paragon Apartments " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>555 Collins Street's envisaged pool deck and Paragon Apartments</figcaption></figure>555 Collins Street adds to Fragrance Group's other Melbourne pursuit, Premier Tower, which will over the coming months begin to rise above street level on its way to an eventual height of 249 metres above Spencer Street. 555 Collins Street's launch comes as the AFR reported last week on Paragon's early sales success within Malaysia. 

49 apartments within the tower located at 316-320 Queen Street have been sold to to Malaysian buyers; accumulated the sales have an end value of $70 million.

Finally the construction front also brings fresh news during May.

Probuild signage has appeared across 271 Spring Street, heralding construction commencement of Australian Unity's new headquarters. The $110 million office tower set over 16 levels includes 15,600 square metres of commercial office space and is due to be completed during 2019.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image158.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Probuild's dual new commercial CBD projects. "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="350" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image158.jpg?itok=pUqP26Vs" title="Probuild's dual new commercial CBD projects. " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Probuild's dual new commercial CBD projects.</figcaption></figure>Probuild are also <a href="http://www.probuild.com.au/news/news/probuild-appointed-as-preferred-contractor-to-construct-new-victoria-police-centre-482">set to begin works</a> on Victoria Police's new building at 311 Spencer Street this month. Across 39 levels, 311 Spencer Street encompasses 65,000 square metres of commercial space.

Finally the remaining tower crane servicing Light House at 450 Elizabeth Street is making its way back town to terra firma, indicating that completion is nearing for Melbourne's latest tower to reach the 200 metre club. Hengyi Australia's latest includes over 600 apartments within the 218 metre 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/img_0059.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Light House stands centre of shot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="423" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_0059.jpg?itok=X6FTQwpW" title="Light House stands centre of shot" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Light House stands centre of shot</figcaption></figure>
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The May CBD development wrap

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Augmented planning rules introduced over recent years has made it impossible for the 'skinny skyscraper' to grace the vast majority of inner Melbourne's skyline. That is, after a number of eyebrow-raising developments were approved under now defunct planning regulations.

Whilst the <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">CBD</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a> may be off limits, a proposal has landed upon Elizabeth Street that looks to keep the typology viable in Melbourne. Kerstin Thompson Architects are the driving force behind <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">656-658 Elizabeth Street</a>, with the hope of realising a 15-storey tower on a 169sqm site.

Carrying a 7.9m frontage to Elizabeth Street, the site also fills in another relatively minuscule plot along the thoroughfare that has been subject to intense development over the past decade.

<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/image129_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A street level perspective. Planning image: Kerstin Thompson Architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="452" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image129_0.jpg?itok=irF_1OXN" title="A street level perspective. Planning image: Kerstin Thompson Architects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A street level perspective. Planning image: Kerstin Thompson Architects</figcaption></figure>Whilst not a skyscraper in the strictest interpretation, 656-658 Elizabeth Street does fall into the 'skinny' category, with the project's particulars reflecting this.

Ground floor will host a 21.6sqm retail tenancy with the immediate two floor above hosting offices; both of which carry 123sqm floor plates. Apartments planned within the tower are varied in size, ranging up to four bedroom dwellings set over split levels. 10 dwellings will be included within the tower which will be serviced by 3 basement levels.

In order to facilitate the development, an 1870's era building onsite will be demolished.

A former foundry, the single-storey structure falls within the Elizabeth Street North (Boulevard) Precinct is a graded heritage building. The development's proponents argue that its loss and the subsequent tower "will not have an unacceptable impact on the character, appearance or identified significance of the heritage place that is...Elizabeth Street North (Boulevard) Precinct."

<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/image128_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Phoenix Flinders Street &amp; Collins House. Images: Bosco Johnson &amp; Golden Age"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="423" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image128_2.jpg?itok=yhsVaNnw" title="Phoenix Flinders Street &amp; Collins House. Images: Bosco Johnson &amp; Golden Age" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Phoenix Flinders Street &amp; Collins House. Images: Bosco Johnson &amp; Golden Age</figcaption></figure>Although not of their scale, 656-658 Elizabeth Street is reminiscent of Phoenix Apartments and <a href="/buildings/collins-house-melbourne-460-466-collins-street-melbourne">Collins House</a>; both super skinny residential towers.

Prior to Planning Minster Richard Wynne's regulatory intervention, towers such as Phoenix Apartments were touted as becoming more prevalent across Melbourne's CBD owing to the decreasing number of viable large sites available for development. Rising 28 storeys, the site which Phoenix Apartments sits upon spans a mere 6.7m.

Perhaps better described as a skinny tower, 656-658 Elizabeth Street's fate is with City of Melbourne. Lodged during January, the Elizabeth Street project is currently at advertising prior to City of Melbourne deciding whether there is still a place for the skinny tower in Melbourne.
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Is there still a place for the 'skinny skyscraper' in Melbourne?

<html><body>
PACE Development Group have pushed further into the suburban apartment market. Adding to their already impressive list of residential apartment projects is news that the firm will be involved in two new developments.

Whilst the wraps are due to come off a significant project in Melbourne's South East in which PACE will be a development partner, there's no mistaking their newest development at 554-558 High Street Road, Mount Waverley.

PACE as developer is seeking approval for 90 dwellings across the Mount Waverley site, replacing two low-rise brick commercial buildings which themselves form part of the Syndal Activity Centre along Blackburn Road. Staggered to a height of 8 levels, 554-558 High Street Road has been designed by Cera Stribley Architects.

Two basement levels and three ground floor tenancies form the balance of the development, with one space earmarked as a medical centre. Above, a mixture of one, two and three bedroom apartments are expected, ranging between 50sqm and 129sqm respectively.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image116_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="High Street Road perspective. Planning mage: Cera Stribley"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="294" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image116_1.jpg?itok=U5GeEyUk" title="High Street Road perspective. Planning mage: Cera Stribley" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>High Street Road perspective. Planning mage: Cera Stribley</figcaption></figure><blockquote>
The proposal is broken up into three distinct blocks - The Podium that addresses High Street Road and the rear carpark and recreational reserve, The Sandwich, which creates an immediate layer and The Crown, that floats above.

The primary design element is the grid. A simple yet powerful architectural expression that provides a balanced and subtle design response. This well refined expression ensures the building co-exists within its surroundings without trying to be overly striking, attention seeking or iconic.
<cite>Design Statement: Cera Stribley Architects</cite>
</blockquote>

The site in question covers 2,619sqm and has a 61.5 metre frontage to High Street Road. According to plans advertised with City of Monash, the project's complexion will be a mixture of glazing and metal cladding. Bronze, pale grey charcoal and white elements will define the building's look.

Cera Stribley Architects are also the design force behind another PACE development under construction, namely Pace of Northcote.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_9054.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Making way for Pace of Doncaster East"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="361" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9054.jpg?itok=aHyVHrx1" title="Making way for Pace of Doncaster East" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Making way for Pace of Doncaster East</figcaption></figure>PACE Development Group's stable of current projects has expanded into virgin suburbs in recent times.

Mount Waverley joins Collingwood, Abbotsford, Doncaster East, Brunswick and Northcote as suburbs in which PACE has a current development interest. All six current projects also represent PACE's first foray into the respective suburbs, and a marked departure from the inner South East where PACE effectively served its development and construction apprenticeship.

With the recent commencement of works at Pace of Doncaster East, this brings to four the number of PACE projects under construction. The remaining projects at construction include Pace of Collingwood, Pace of Northcote and 808 Sydney Road.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_9847.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Looming large over Sydney Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="395" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9847.jpg?itok=Y3lIQ-kw" title="Looming large over Sydney Road" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Looming large over Sydney Road</figcaption></figure>
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PACE push further into Melbourne's suburban apartment belt

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Mirvac has ushered in the completion of another tower within its long-running Yarra's Edge enclave. 

Forge Tower is the latest building to welcome residents to Docklands; it along with a series of low-rise townhouses represent Mirvac's first gesture within the final Wharf’s Entrance sub-precinct. The continued push by Mirvac westward within Yarra's Edge and into the final Wharf’s Entrance stage comes 17 years after the developer began formulating the precinct that holds well over one kilometre of Yarra River frontage.

Valued at $200 million, Forge includes 228 apartments within the 30 storey, 100 metre tower and was built over a two year period.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_9684.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The bulk of Forge's apartment maintain a CBD aspect"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9684.jpg?itok=htQ6lzwD" title="The bulk of Forge's apartment maintain a CBD aspect" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The bulk of Forge's apartment maintain a CBD aspect</figcaption></figure>Aiding Forge's apartments are 302 parking spaces, 84 bicycle spaces and 229sqm of retail space at ground level, which interfaces with the new Wharf's Landing park.

Mirvac's in-house design team were responsible for the tower's overall design, and have included a broad selection of apartments within. The spread of apartment options includes five one and two-bedroom artist studios, 10 one-bedroom lofts, 56 one-bedroom apartments, two two-bedroom maisonettes, 111 two-bedroom apartments, five three-bedroom terraces and 39 three-bedroom apartments ranging up to 151sqm in size.

Artist and sculptor Ned Kahn had a hand in the design process, contributing ’Fluid Lines’ to the tower's podium. The kinetic urban art installation to the corner of Lorimer Street and Regatta Way relies upon the wind to drive ripple-like movements across the podium facade.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_9687.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Forge's kinetic facade element"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9687.jpg?itok=hvBPyMUl" title="Forge's kinetic facade element" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Forge's kinetic facade element</figcaption></figure>In a media release marking Forge's completion, Mirvac’s General Manager of Residential Victoria, Elysa Anderson provided the following:

<blockquote>
Wharf’s Entrance transforms what was once an old wharf, and follows the success of Yarra’s Edge to date in creating one of Melbourne’s most culturally vibrant and liveable communities with unparalleled waterfront access, a realisation of Mirvac’s purpose to reimagine urban life.

The completion of Forge is a momentous event for Yarra’s Edge, which is now home to a lively community of more than 3,000 people.

We are proud to be one step closer to realising our vision for the precinct – which has been more than 17 years in the making - of a well-connected neighbourhood of diverse residents who enjoy an enviable waterfront lifestyle, while being just a stone’s throw away from the best of what Melbourne’s CBD has to offer.
</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/img_9680_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Podium apartments within Forge's podium"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="399" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9680_1.jpg?itok=8ysPFU45" title="Podium apartments within Forge's podium" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Podium apartments on show</figcaption></figure><h2>Comment</h2>

As recently as last week, negative media reports continue to dog Docklands.

And the negative commentary in some regards is justified - Docklands for the most is by no means the design and urban Shangri-La that many had hoped for.

Yet it is highly successful in certain regards. The flood of residents and white-collar workers to the 'new' suburb that effectively doubled Melbourne's CBD is an undisputed success and is evidenced by the 3,000 odd residents that choose to call Yarra's Edge home.

As precinct's such as Yarra's Edge continue to add new residents, its will be intriguing to see if this 'critical mass' of people goes some way to creating more of a '24 hour' feel within Docklands, rather than the '9 to 5' moniker it has attracted.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/img_9683.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The oversized podium design gesture"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/img_9683.jpg?itok=stV-b2Mm" title="The oversized podium design gesture" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The oversized podium design gesture</figcaption></figure>
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Mirvac forges a new chapter within Yarra's Edge

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LongRiver Group have ramped up their Box Hill development intentions. The privately owned property player is poised to launch a major apartment tower fronting Whitehorse Road whilst simultaneously working to secure the right to build Melbourne's latest DoubleTree by Hilton outlet.

820 Whitehorse Road's redevelopment came to light early last year, with Whitehorse Council ultimately granting LongRiver Group the right to proceed with the 30 storey building just prior to the turn of 2017. Valued at around the $200 mark, <a href="/buildings/east-central-tower-820-whitehorse-road-box-hill">East Central Tower</a> as it will be known is now accepting registrations of interest.

Included within the tower designed by Fender Katsalidis are approximately 280 apartments, 1,500sqm of residential facilities plus 3,000sqm of combined office and retail space.

<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/image111_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="East Central Tower is nearing its sales launch. Image: Longriver Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="832" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image111_3.jpg?itok=b-m7nOYO" title="East Central Tower is nearing its sales launch. Image: Longriver Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>East Central Tower is nearing its sales launch. Image: Longriver Group</figcaption></figure>East Central Tower's pending launch comes as LongRiver Group work on bringing DoubleTree by Hilton to Box Hill.

Integrated property and infrastructure consultancy APP have released details of the intended DoubleTree by Hilton tower at 874-878 Whitehorse Road. Whitehorse Council are still assessing the project which landed at planning late last year.

<blockquote>
The new hotel, to be developed in the <a href="/developments/box-hill-vic-3128">suburb of Box Hill</a>, will be the second DoubleTree by Hilton in Melbourne. Box Hill is a major commercial hub in Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs and is an area of strategic significance with planned growth in employment, housing, business, services and public investment.

Currently in the design phase, the hotel will include 200 stylish and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, bar and gym coupled with an array of contemporary amenities consistent with the DoubleTree by Hilton brand. 

DoubleTree Hilton is renowned for delivering upscale, full-service hotels and identifying key markets around the world, and the new development is no exception. Expected to open in 2020, the hotel is in a prime position surrounded by education, government and healthcare facilities and is anticipated to inject a fresh, energetic presence to the Box Hill area.
<cite>APP </cite>
</blockquote>

874-878 Whitehorse Road has an expected project value of $90 million.

<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/image114_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="DoubleTree by Hilton is headed for Box Hill. Image: APP"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="273" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image114_3.jpg?itok=ealmaEpR" title="DoubleTree by Hilton is headed for Box Hill. Image: APP" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>DoubleTree by Hilton is headed for Box Hill. Image: APP</figcaption></figure>Whilst Box Hill has over recent years transformed into a favoured apartment market, it's only now that the suburb has gained traction in terms of attracting hotel operators.

DoubleTree by Hilton's 200 suites will follow The Chen, an Art Series Hotel containing 100 suites which is nearing completion as part of the larger Whitehorse Towers development. Also in play atop the hill are 150 approved hotel suites within Spotlight Property Group's 845-851 Whitehorse Road project and 77 serviced apartments as part of Golden Age Group's proposed 517-521 Station Street development.
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Doubletree by Hilton and East Central Tower define LongRiver's Box Hill aspirations

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has lodged plans for a $750 million, three-tower mixed-use precinct that would complete the long-running redevelopment of Carlton's former Carlton United Breweries site.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/185-195-queensberry-street-carlton-vic-3053">46-78 Bouverie Street and 185-195 Queensberry Street</a> spans a 6,468 sqm site, the last remaining undeveloped parcels within the former brewery's 2007 masterplan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the development will comprise two purpose-built student accommodation towers and a third build-to-sell apartment tower above a shared commercial podium and basement.

Across the three towers, SP Setia is proposing 606 build-to-sell apartments and 1,499 student accommodation units containing 2,009 beds.

The apartments will sit in the tallest tower, which will rise nearly 200m and 55 storeys. It will become&nbsp;one of the more substantial new build-to-sell apartment projects at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD.

The apartment mix is weighted toward smaller inner-city product, with 188 studios, 206 one-bedroom apartments, 192 two-bedroom apartments and 20 three-bedroom apartments

<img alt="First look: SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8271bc87-1b0a-41b7-ac73-a425ee375261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_2.png?VersionId=G4lw23o90B1boX4k4dj7rdz2ZEajS9wy" />

Part of the precinct will be a large-scale&nbsp;3,684 sqm supermarket and a further 2,198 sqm of speciality retail, creating close to 5,900 sqm of new commercial space within the precinct.

But one of the biggest components of the proposal is what sits between the buildings.

Around 4,650 sqm, or roughly 72 per cent of the site, will be publicly accessible open space, incorporating plazas, pedestrian connections, landscaped laneways and retail spill-out areas.

The ground plane is intended to finally complete pedestrian connections envisaged when the CUB masterplan was first approved nearly two decades ago, stitching together Victoria Street, Queensberry Street, Bouverie Street and Swanston Street through the former brewery precinct.

Urbis said the development would "complete the CUB precinct", with the public realm providing important north-south and east-west connections through what is currently the final undeveloped portion of the masterplanned site.

SP Setia is also exploring a new linear park within the Bouverie Street road reserve, with the concept to be developed further with the City of Melbourne through the planning process.

The proposal is being pursued through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program under Clause 53.23 for significant residential development with affordable housing.

The planning report acknowledges the proposed heights exceed those contemplated under the original Comprehensive Development Plan and masterplan, but argues the built-form context has changed considerably over the past two decades.

Urbis said the three towers would instead create a stepped transition between Carlton and the Hoddle Grid, rising progressively from the 94.1-metre Tower One along the Queensberry Street edge to the 199.44-metre Tower Three closer to the established CBD-scale buildings to the south.

<img alt="SP Setia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e885a07a-592c-40fc-bf82-e6dbaf32da54" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.52.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7s_ErUkSKAdY1mAWp3GRZgMNCGtwhk5m" />

SP Setia plans to deliver the development across three stages.

Stage One would deliver the basement, podium and retail areas for the entire precinct alongside the first student tower. Tower Two would follow in Stage Two, before the 606-apartment Tower Three is delivered as the final stage.

If approved and delivered, the project would close out a redevelopment process that has been underway since the former brewery masterplan was approved in 2007, adding more than 2,600 student beds and apartments to a precinct already home to Swanston Central, the Barak Building, RMIT Design Hub and several large student accommodation developments.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct

Melbourne developer Lowe Living is seeking to add to its growing bayside apartment pipeline, filing plans for a boutique eight-residence development in tightly held Middle Park.

Lowe Living, which has built much of its development portfolio across Melbourne's affluent bayside and south-east suburbs, is behind the plans for the 730 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/123-125-erskine-street-middle-park-vic-3206">123-125 Erskine Street</a>, just off Armstrong Street and within the Armstrong Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

The developer is seeking approval for a five-storey residential building above two basement levels, with just eight large-format apartments and 18 car spaces.

“This is a deliberately very different proposition for us,"&nbsp;Tim Lowe, Co-Founder of Lowe Living, said.

"Eight residences is exceptionally boutique, but that's precisely what this site calls for.

“There is a strong community in Middle Park and the surrounding suburbs who have spent decades building a life here. They no longer want the maintenance of a large period home, but they aren't prepared to compromise on space, quality or location. We think there is a real opportunity to capture that hyper local market. A site like this rarely comes to market.”

<img alt="Lowe " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="875fe572-0f14-4d90-9e11-55b28dd07731" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.42.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GDNQRv9BfpR9r1zkZ5UDyUM4ZvpIksut" />

The low-density proposal has been designed by Cera Stribley and is being progressed through the Victorian Government's Great Design Fast Track pathway, having already secured eligibility from the Minister for Planning.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect supported its eligibility after finding the proposal demonstrated consistency with the program's seven design principles, while the project's financial feasibility has also been independently confirmed by Invest Victoria.

The project is targeting the downsizer market, with the planning documents describing the homes as larger-format residences and noting the two penthouses could otherwise have been configured as four separate apartments.

<img alt="Lowe 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60ab0987-2da6-4175-adac-315dcf6053c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.15%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bOCPH0B2MFwlmaRW.TTCF9TzyifgVoQI" />

The site has dual frontage to Erskine Street and Canterbury Place and currently comprises a collection of commercial buildings used as offices, including a former heritage bakehouse, a former stable, a later gabled addition and a central courtyard.

It sits within the Commercial 1 Zone and the Armstrong Street Commercial Precinct heritage overlay, with the existing property classified as a contributory heritage place.

Heritage has subsequently played a significant role in Cera Stribley's design.

The front section of the former bakehouse facing Erskine Street will be retained, including its return walls, street-facing hipped roof and chimneys, while the Erskine Street façade and part of the western return wall of the former stable will also be incorporated into the new development.

Levels four and five will be set back five metres from the retained stable façade, while bricks removed through demolition are proposed to be salvaged and reused within the new building where possible.

<img alt="Lowe 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e97927a9-a2de-4a0f-83b6-65451238abfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VR44AChLrX9q1XPB9GvVQV.ALXXbe4gC" />

Rather than presenting as a single five-storey building to Erskine Street, Cera Stribley has broken the development into a series of distinct forms.

A three-storey infill element will sit between the retained bakehouse and stable façades, with the upper levels recessed behind the heritage fabric. Canterbury Place will similarly feature two three-storey podium forms, separated by a central pedestrian accessway, before the upper two levels step back from the street.

A pedestrian through-link will run through the centre of the project between Erskine Street and Canterbury Place, creating entrances from both sides of the site and introducing landscaping and communal areas through the ground plane.

Landscape architect Acre has designed planting across the ground level, private terraces and upper levels, including a feature canopy tree at level three and integrated planting and arbours across the level four terraces. Five existing Erskine Street trees are proposed to be retained.

Sustainability is also a significant component of the Great Design Fast Track application. The apartments are targeting an average eight-star NatHERS rating, with no residence below 6.5 stars, while the project has achieved a 75 per cent BESS score. Seven of the eight apartments are designed for cross-ventilation, with the remaining residence using mechanically assisted natural ventilation.

The plans also incorporate an 8kWp rooftop solar system, a 5,000-litre rainwater tank and infrastructure allowing future electric vehicle charging for every residence.

Lowe has a strong portfolio across Melbourne's blue-chip suburbs. They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House by Lowe Living</a> in Camberwell, their first development in the Stonnington LGA.

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

<a data-end="327" data-is-only-node="" data-start="250" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/norus-projects" rel="noopener" target="_new">Norus Developments</a> has lodged plans for a new apartment development in Clayton that would add further momentum to the suburb's emerging Green Street corridor.

Plans have been lodged for the consolidated site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1359-1365-centre-road-clayton-vic-3168">1359-1365 Centre Road</a>, where Norus is seeking approval for 218 apartments across a 12-storey apartment building designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/life-architecture-and-urban-design">Life Architecture</a>.

The proposal sits within the Clayton Major Activity Centre at the threshold of the planned Green Street corridor, a landscaped pedestrian connection intended to improve links through the precinct towards Clayton Railway Station.

The development would replace the site's existing collection of low-scale residential and commercial buildings with a single consolidated building, introducing significantly greater housing density to this part of Centre Road.

A retail tenancy is proposed at ground level to activate the Centre Road frontage, accompanied by transparent street interfaces and landscaping intended to create a more pedestrian-focused edge to the development.

<img alt="First look: Norus Developments plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a5a763a-d9e9-4253-af2f-88008de27ebf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Clayton%20a.png?VersionId=S2WJJbat1XVkZwB9SnYtygirXgWHiklX" />

The building has been designed with stepped massing and upper-level setbacks to manage its transition towards surrounding residential properties. The planning report describes the approach as one that integrates the building into the landscape rather than treating landscaping as a secondary element.

"A strong landscape and public realm strategy underpins the proposal," Urbis states in the planning report.

"Public benefits include an affordable housing contribution, a new pocket park, generous landscaped setbacks, deep soil planting and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design."

The report adds that these elements are intended to create "a permeable, pedestrian-focused ground plane that enhances walkability, supports urban cooling and reinforces the emerging Green Street character."

Biophilic and passive design principles extend through the residential levels, with planting, daylight, natural ventilation and views towards landscaped areas forming part of the amenity strategy.

Parking would be concentrated away from the public realm, with 145 car spaces proposed from the rear laneway rather than dominating the Centre Road frontage.

The proposal follows an extensive pre-application process with the City of Monash. Three formal meetings were held between the project team and Council from December 2025 to March 2026, with the scheme evolving through several concept iterations before the current design was lodged.

The project arrives as Clayton prepares for substantial change around its established activity centre and the wider Suburban Rail Loop precinct. Its position on Centre Road places the development within an existing concentration of shops, services and public transport, while the Green Street connection is intended to strengthen pedestrian access towards Clayton Railway Station.

First look: Norus plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> has officially commenced construction on Bronze on Chevron, celebrating the sod turning of its first-ever Gold Coast development and marking a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion across South East Queensland.&nbsp;

Following the successful delivery of premium residential developments throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> represents Gardner Vaughan Group's entry into the Gold Coast market. Bronze will deliver 119 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above two ground-level retail tenancies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367193]

The recent sod turning ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, President of the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, Cassandra Sedgman, project consultants, purchasers, project partners and invited guests to celebrate the commencement of construction.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge said Bronze on Chevron represented an exciting new chapter for the business.&nbsp;

"We've spent almost four decades building homes that respond to the way people want to live, and we're excited to bring that experience to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>," Betteridge said.

"Bronze on Chevron is particularly significant because it marks Gardner Vaughan Group's first development on the Gold Coast following many successful projects across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367183]

Betteridge said the ground breaking is a proud moment for the&nbsp;team and their purchasers, who can now see their future homes beginning to take shape.&nbsp;

"As both developer and builder, we're able to oversee every aspect of the project from design through to construction, ensuring the quality and attention to detail Gardner Vaughan Group has become renowned for."&nbsp;

Designed by acclaimed architectural practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, Bronze on Chevron has been thoughtfully designed to complement Chevron Island's evolving streetscape while embracing its relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029

Mark Baljak

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